Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Nov 1997

Vol. 482 No. 3

Written Answers. - Psychological Service.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

376 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the consideration, if any, which has been given to a proposal from Ballyroan National School, County Dublin, for a pilot programme for a support unit for children suffering from asperger syndrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17827/97]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

My Department is currently considering a proposal submitted by ASPIRE, Asperger Syndrome Association of Ireland Ltd., for a pilot project at Ballyroan national school, Rathfarnham.

The main objective of the project is to carry out an evaluation of the support services required for students with Asperger Syndrome attending mainstream primary schools.

A meeting has already taken place between representatives of ASPIRE, Ballyroan national school and my Department to discuss the details of the proposal. A further meeting with ASPIRE is planned shortly.