Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 January 2017
107. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if, in the context of an application for a home tuition grant for a person of preschool age, his Department recognises a diagnosis of ASD by way of a private assessment if that person remains on a public waiting list for an assessment of need under the Disability Act 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2466/17]
View answerThe purpose of the Home tuition Scheme is to provide a compensatory educational service for children with special educational needs seeking an educational placement with provision also made for early educational intervention for children with autism. The scheme also provides a compensatory educational service for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school.
In order to meet the eligibility criteria for applications under the Early Intervention strand and those seeking an educational placement, a child must have a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder based on the DSM V or ICD 10 criteria. Diagnosis can be confirmed through private assessment.
Professional reports are not required to be submitted directly to my Department in making application for Home Tuition but are submitted by the applicant to the relevant Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO). The availability of a school placement will be assessed by the SENO having regard to, although not limited to, the relevant diagnosis and relevant professional report.
