School Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 May 2021

Tuesday, 11 May 2021

Questions (445)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

445. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education the efforts being made to allow and facilitate the retention of a behavioural analyst at a school (details supplied), which is essential for the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23705/21]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Education

My Department previously funded 13 centres through an ABA pilot scheme for the period 1999-2011. All of these centres applied for and were granted recognition as Special Schools for children with Autism and now form part of the network of special schools. A transitional agreement was put in place between the Department and Patrons of these schools to manage this process.

As part of the transitional agreement my Department provides grant funding to these schools to engage behaviour practitioners. This arrangement has been extended for the forthcoming school year.