Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Jun 1998

Vol. 493 No. 3

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Richard Bruton

Question:

454 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will support the placement of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 in the Higashi School, Boston, in view of the absence of a suitable placement in Ireland to permit him to further develop his education. [16025/98]

Seán Haughey

Question:

472 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will support an application for funding by the parents of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 who has autism in order to send him to a school in Boston; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16090/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 454 and 472 together.

I am aware of the case to which the Deputies refer. My Department's inspectorate is actively engaged in seeking to arrange a suitable educational placement for the child in question. I am hopeful that the necessary arrangements will be put in place shortly.

Children with autism have access to a variety of special support services. The precise nature of the support provided depends on the severity of the condition in each individual case.

In some cases, children with mild features of autism can be educated in ordinary schools with the support, where necessary, of remedial or resource teachers. Children with more serious needs have traditionally been catered for in special schools, including schools catering for children with mild mental handicap and schools for children with emotional or behavioural disorders.

My Department is engaged in the establishment of a number of special classes which will be dedicated specifically to the needs of children with autism. I am hopeful that the needs of the child in question will be accommodated in this context.