As the Taoiseach is aware all children, including those with special needs, have a constitutional right to be educated in a place and manner that is appropriate to their needs. I understand the Educate Together school in Gorey has an ASD unit fully funded and ready to go.

It has space for six students and a further 18 on its waiting list. However, it is waiting on the go-ahead from the Department, which is holding up the project. Will the Taoiseach please investigate the cause of the delay? It is most important to have this decision sanctioned as soon as possible as it is unfair and is having a detrimental effect on the families who should have the right to know where their children's educational needs lie.

I thank the Deputy for raising the important of issue of special needs in Gorey. I do not have up-to-date information on the unit but I will make some inquiries with the office of the relevant Minister of State, Deputy Madigan, today and come back to the Deputy as soon as I have more information.