Vol. 519 No. 5
314 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in the establishment of the special class in St. Helen's, Portmarnock, County Dublin; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that children waiting for placement can lose ground which will be very difficult to retrieve; and if he will also fund a pro fessional support team to supply specialist supports to the class. [14108/00]
I assure the Deputy that I share his concern that the matter to which he refers should be advanced as speedily as possible.
My Department's inspectorate has been in ongoing discussion with the school in question in relation to this matter and I understand that agreement has now been reached for the establishment of two special classes for children with autism from September next.
Each of the classes in question will operate at a maximum pupil teacher ratio of 6:1 and will have special needs assistant support. The children attending the classes will also attract a special increased rate of capitation funding.
In the particular case of children with autism, there is also a need for additional support services, such as speech and language therapy and occupational therapy. These services are provided on an outreach basis through the relevant health authority. My Department works in close co-operation with the health authorities in arranging to have these services put in place.
