Vol. 509 No. 4
339 Mr. Kenneally asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to provide a special unit for autistic children in Waterford in view of the difficulty in trying to secure places in other schools located in the southeast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20321/99]
My Department's inspectorate is currently investigating the establishment of a special class for autism in the Waterford area. The inspector has met with school authorities and with the relevant staff in the health board and will report to my Department as soon as a number of outstanding assessment reports on children have been received.
Special classes for pupils with autism receive the support of a class teacher, a special needs assistant and enhanced capitation funding. Each class caters for a maximum of six pupils. In addition, the relevant health board provides an outreach support service.
It is my intention to continue to target educational supports for children with autism where an assessed level of need has been identified.
