Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Mar 2000

Vol. 516 No. 4

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Richard Bruton

Question:

115 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make provision for one to one tuition using applied behaviour analysis for children on the autistic spectrum in Dublin similar to the CABAS initiative in Cork; and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that autistic services in Dublin offer only 183 days service compared to longer hours over 230 days in the Cork project. [8382/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

In November 1998 my Department announced its formal recognition of the distinct educational needs of certain children with autism. Arising from this decision, such children can now be provided for in dedicated classes within the primary system. All such classes operate at a maximum pupil-teacher ratio of 6:1 and have child care assistant support. To date, more than 50 such classes have been established to cater for children with autism and further classes will be established in response to identified need. These classes operate for the duration of the normal primary school year of 183 days.

The CABAS project to which the Deputy refers is a pilot initiative which was established in July 1999 to cater for up to 12 children who have been assessed as autistic and who range in age from four to six years. The CABAS project, which follows the principles of applied behaviour analysis, has been established for a five year pilot period. This pilot project does not have to operate within the normal primary school year of 183 days. The operation of this pilot project is being monitored and its effectiveness will be evaluated on an ongoing basis. The question of further expansion of the applied behaviour analysis approach, including the extended school year involved, will be considered in the light of the outcome of the evaluation of the CABAS project.

Louis J. Belton

Question:

116 Mr. Belton asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to set up classes for mild mentally handicapped pupils in Longford (details supplied). [8383/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

My Department has not received any application from the Longford area seeking the establishment of special classes for children assessed with a mild general learning disability. My Department will give favourable consideration to the establishment of such classes where a sufficient number of eligible pupils have been identified and suitable accommodation is available.

I have asked my Department's inspectorate to investigate the issue raised by the Deputy.