Autism Support Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 April 2015

Wednesday, 22 April 2015

Questions (33)

Mick Wallace

Question:

33. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide details of the methods in place to prevent children with autism spectrum disorder from dropping out of the education system due to expulsions, suspensions and anxiety-related issues, which may not be dealt with appropriately within some schools; if she will outline the measures taken to ensure that international best practice is being implemented in this regard, and also as regards the recommendations as detailed in the atism task force report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15481/15]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills

My Department's policy is to promote a child-centred approach to the education of children with special needs, including children with Autism.

Provision is made for mainstream, special class, and special school placements, to ensure all children can avail of education.My Department provides support to schools through the National Educational Psychological Service, Inspectorate, and the Special Educational Support Service, in order to assist them in supporting children with Special Educational Needs, including children with Autism.

All schools are required to have in place a Code of Behaviour, of which parents should be made aware.

Schools are obliged to notify the Educational Welfare Service of TUSLA of absences of more than 20 days and suspensions of more than 6 days. A parent may appeal suspensions or expulsions under Section 29 of the Education Act.In responding to the recommendations of the 2001 Task Force on Autism, my Department has given priority to implementing the core legislative and structural measures required to underpin service development and delivery.

My Department has requested the NCSE to provide policy advice on Autism, which will be delivered in the coming months.