Autism Support Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 April 2014

Tuesday, 8 April 2014

Questions (198)

Clare Daly

Question:

198. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a child (details supplied) in County Dublin who has been unable to attend Foxfield SNS, due to behavioural issues, and whose parents were advised by the school that they believes the child requires a separate building with extra staff, and have met with the NCSE, National Council for Special Education, and with representatives from the National Educational Welfare Board about what they believe will work for him, but as yet have had no response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16331/14]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

The Deputy will be aware that the establishment of a network of autism-specific special classes in schools across the country to cater for children with autism has been a key educational priority in recent years. The National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from primary and post primary schools for special educational needs supports, including the establishment of special classes in various geographical areas as required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. I have therefore arranged for the Deputy's question relating to this child to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.