Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 July 2014
221. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress regarding the provision of a suitable special education early years school placement in respect of a child (details supplied) in County Cork; if home tuition is being examined as an alternative; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32216/14]
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 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.The Deputy will be aware that the purpose of the Home Tuition Scheme is to provide a compensatory educational service for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme also provides a compensatory educational service for children awaiting a suitable educational placement and for early intervention for children with autism. In the event that there is no suitable placements for the child in question, home tuition will be considered. Full details of the Home Tuition Scheme are set out in Circular 0048/2014 on www.education.ie.
