Vol. 576 No. 5
337 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress that can be made following a meeting between the SEHB and the Irish Autism Alliance held on 28 November on the specific issues raised at the meeting; if a plan of action can be established in partnership with the local group represented at the meeting in order that work can commence on resolving the issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29817/03]
339 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children diagnosed with autism in the SEHB area; the provision made by the SEHB to have children assessed; the number of qualified staff involved and if there is a waiting list; if the children are categorised by age; if so, the number in each category; if the numbers can be given on a county basis; the action taken by the SEHB in each category once the assessment is complete; the amount of funding allocated by the SEHB to the sector over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29819/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 337 and 339 together.
The matters raised by the Deputy are a matter for the South-Eastern Health Board. My Department has forwarded his queries to the board's chief executive officer for his attention and direct reply.
