Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 February 2014
217. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that applied behavioural analysis for children with autism is viewed as a medical treatment in the US rather than an educational service; his views on same; his plans to ensure that ABA is considered a medical treatment in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9753/14]
View answerApplied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is one of a number of approaches that are used, predominantly in educational settings, when working with children with autism spectrum disorders. While noting the matters raised by the Deputy in relation to applied behavioural analysis (ABA) for children with autism in the United States, I am advised that it is not considered a medical treatment in Ireland and there are no plans to modify this position.
The Deputy may be interested to note that my colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills has asked the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) to provide policy advice specifically on the educational provision for children with autism spectrum disorders and this should be delivered by Spring of 2015. It is expected that the NCSE final report will reflect the broadest possible range of view and provide recommendations which will assist the development of policy in this area for future years.
