§ Mr. McCuskerasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many special care children are estimated to be in Northern Ireland; how many school 352W places are available in Northern Ireland to cater for them; how many special care children are estimated to be within the jurisdiction of the Southern Education and Library Board; and how many places are provided within that area.
§ Mr. MoyleThere are approximately 1,450 children under age 16 in Northern Ireland in need of special care. Approximately 2,000 places are available at special care schools, some of which are filled by persons over 16 years of age. The corresponding figures for the Southern Health and Social Services Board, which is responsible for special care children in the southern area, are approximately 300 and 400 respectively. Of the 400 places available some are filled by persons over 16 years of age.