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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Feb 2002

Vol. 548 No. 2

Written Answers. - Autism Services.

Richard Bruton

Question:

468 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the range of services on the northside of Dublin available for children in the autistic spectrum between the ages of ten and 14 years; and the services which his Department makes available to parents who feel that their child is inappropriately placed in a service at present. [4738/02]

There are seven special classes attached to mainstream primary schools and dedicated to children on the autistic spectrum in the area referred to by the Deputy. One of these classes is dedicated to children with Asperger's syndrome. Each of these classes caters for a maximum of six pupils and each class has the support of a teacher and two special needs assistants.

Children with special needs, including autism, attending second level schools are generally supported by the resource teacher and special needs assistant services. The level of support provided in any particular case is determined by the professionally assessed needs of the individual child.

I am concerned to ensure that parents of children with special needs, including autism, are satisfied as to the adequacy of the service made available to their children. Any parent who feels that their child is inappropriately placed should raise the matter with the relevant school authorities, or bring their concerns to my Department's attention so that the matter can be investigated.

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