Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 May 2014
269. Deputy Michael P. Kitt asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will examine the case of a person (details supplied) who has autism and is awaiting an educational place for some considerable time; if he will clarify the position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22891/14]
View answerThe 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 enrolment of a child to a school is a matter in the first instance for the parents of the child and the Board of Management of a school. My Department has no role in relation to processing applications for enrolment to schools.
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.
Parents may contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs and to seek assistance in identifying placement options, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.
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.
