Question:
570 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the need to establish and support the Educate Together plan for autistic children in Lucan, County Dublin. [16870/01]
Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.
My Department is anxious to support the project in question and has already made resources available to the Lucan Educate Together School.
Difficulties did arise in relation to the siting of temporary accommodation to facilitate two special classes for pupils with autism, which are being established at the school. However, I am informed that these difficulties are close to resolution and that it is proposed that the two special classes will become fully operational in September 2001.
Each of the classes in question will cater for a maximum of six pupils with autism. Two permanent teaching posts and four permanent special needs assistant posts have already been sanctioned by my Department for these classes.
The provision of therapeutic support services for the classes in question is a matter for the relevant health authority. I have asked my officials to contact the relevant health authority to ensure that the necessary support services are made available.
Question No. 571 answered with Question No. 524.