Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 July 2006
661 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children with autism in County Clare and nationwide for whom the home tuition grant has been withdrawn; the alternative arrangements which have been made for the education of the children affected; her views on reinstating the grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25670/06]
View answerThere are approximately 8 children with autism in County Clare, and fewer than 100 nationwide, whose home tuition grant has been discontinued. My Department considers that school-based education provision is the most appropriate intervention for all children including those with special educational needs and has discontinued the practice whereby children who are in full-time education provision would also be able to avail of home tuition grants. The children referred to by the Deputy are enrolled in special schools or special class placements or are attending mainstream schools with additional resource teaching and special needs assistant supports, as appropriate. It is open to any parent who may have a concern in relation to the educational supports being delivered in the schools to discuss their concerns with the school in question. The National Council for Special Education, and its team of over 70 Special Educational Needs Organisers, is also working, across the country, to ensure that new services are put in place where needed so that autistic children have access to appropriate school-based provision.
