Brian O'Shea
Question:268 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the additional provision, if any, being made in the Waterford constituency for children with autism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10101/00]
Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.
My Department has approved the establishment of a special class for children with autism at Ballyduff National School, County Waterford. It is envisaged that this special class will commence in September 2000.
My Department's inspectorate is also investigating the possibility of establishing a further special class for children with autism in a school in the Waterford City area. It is expected that a decision on the precise location of this special class will be taken in the near future.
Special classes for pupils with autism operate at a maximum pupil teacher ratio of 6:1. Each class also has the support of a special needs assistant and the pupils attract a special increased rate of capitation funding. In addition, the relevant health board provides an outreach support service for the pupils.
My Department also provides resource teacher support for children with autism attending ordinary primary schools on a fully integrated basis. Under a Government decision of October 1998 all such children now have an automatic entitlement to the special support services they require to enable them to gain maximum benefit from the education system.
My Department will continue to make special support services available to children with autism, including children in the Waterford area, in line with assessed needs.