Willie Penrose
Question:146 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the provision of facilities for children with autism in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16433/99]
Written Answers. - Autism Services.
The provision of health services to children with autism in County Westmeath is primarily the responsibility of the Midland Health Board. In the first instance, a number of children with autism in the Westmeath area avail of the services provided to children with an intellectual disability in the county. In addition, a special class is currently being set up in the Presentation school, Mullingar, which will cater for up to five children with autism. As well as receiving educational services, the children attending this class will receive appropriate health-related support services.
This year I was pleased to be in a position to provide additional funding of £50,000, with a full year cost of £150,000 in 2000, for the development of specific health-related support services for children with autism in the midland region. This funding will enable a range of health-related support services to be further developed, and provided, where appropriate, on an outreach basis. These services will enhance existing diagnosis, early intervention, pre-school services and services to schoolgoing children with autism. Planning for the continued development of support services for children and adults with autism is included by the Midland Health Board in their overall consideration of the needs in their region.