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]
Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.
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.
I recently announced my Department's formal recognition of the distinct educational need of certain children with autism. Such children are now being catered for in 37 special classes which have been established in either mainstream national schools or special schools throughout the country. Each of these classes caters for a maximum of six pupils and each class has the sup port of a child care assistant. There are 147 pupils enroled in these classes at present.
My Department's inspectorate is currently investigating the possibility of establishing a number of additional special classes for children with autism in a variety of locations throughout the country.