It's hoped a design team for the construction of a new special school in Ballinasloe will be appointed shortly.
The update on the new building for St. Teresa's Special School was raised in the Seanad this morning by Senator Eugene Murphy.
It's understood a project manager has been now been appointed and a tender competition for the selection of a design team will be put out in the coming weeks.
The major building project will be located on a four acre-site at Parkmore, Creagh which has been agreed in principle by the landowner.
The Department of Education has now confirmed that the legal work on this agreement is at an advanced stage.
Senator Murphy is welcoming the news.
''Now it's very important that we move the project forward. The announcement of a new school was just an unbelievable news for them. This Government is really dedicated to looking after the needs of such children and I welcome that very very much, it's long overdue and it's happening now.''
