The need for an autistic unit has been determined and an application for capital funding for additional accommodation, including an autistic unit, has been received from the school to which the Deputy refers. This application is being assessed with reference to factors such as current and projected enrolments at the school, the likely impact of ongoing and proposed housing developments and the existing provision in the general area.
When this assessment is complete, a decision will be taken on how best to provide for the current and emerging accommodation needs at the school. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that applications from schools for additional accommodation for units for children with autism are being given priority within the building programme and I have arranged for one of my officials to contact the school in question to advise them of the position.
In accordance with the prioritisation criteria for school building projects agreed with the Education Partners, projects involving the provision of specialist accommodation urgently required for children with special needs such as autism are afforded a Band 1 priority by the Department.