Michael D. Higgins
Question:110 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children affected with autism who are awaiting services; and the number receiving appropriate services. [3675/99]
Vol. 500 No. 2
110 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children affected with autism who are awaiting services; and the number receiving appropriate services. [3675/99]
Information on the total number of children who have been diagnosed with autism and who are awaiting services is not readily available in my Department.
In some instances, the nature of the condition can be sufficiently mild as to allow the child to function successfully in the ordinary school system with the support where necessary of a remedial teacher, a visiting teacher, or a resource teacher. At present, there are 1,302 remedial teachers in place in the primary system and it is my intention to extend this service to all primary schools with effect from September next. A total of 48 visiting teachers and 137 resource teachers are also in place in the primary system.