Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 17 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 6

Written Answers - Early Childhood Education.

David Stanton

Question:

174 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if pre-school interventions are being provided specifically to assist the educational and social development of autistic children; the number of children involved in these programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28228/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin)

The White Paper on Early Childhood Education, which I will publish next year, will set out my proposals for the development of a comprehensive early childhood education service. The specific needs of children with autism will be addressed in the White Paper.

In the meantime, in keeping with the Government's commitment to the development of early educational interventions, particularly for special needs children, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that an allocation of £1.2 million has been made available to commence immediate development in this area.

It is intended that the funding in question will be targeted specifically at early childhood services for children with special needs. Already, my Department is actively engaged in pursuing the development of an early childhood service for children with autism.