The CABAS project in Cork is a pilot programme which is delivering an applied behavioural analysis approach to the education of children with autism. The project is catering for 12 children with autism. The project was established in 1999 and will operate for a five-year test period, following which the effectiveness of the approach as a means of catering for children with autism will be assessed. The question of funding further such projects will be considered in the light of the outcome of the evaluation of the CABAS project.
In November 1998 my Department announced its formal recognition of the distinct educational needs of children with autism. Arising from this development, special dedicated provision is now made available for such children at a pupil teacher ratio of 6:1. Each special class also has the support of a child care assistant. To date, more than 50 special classes have been established to provide dedicated educational support for children with autism and my Department is currently pursuing the establishment of additional special classes in a number of locations throughout the country.