Vol. 488 No. 4
318 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has reviewed the effectiveness of the special pilot programmes of special education for children with autism; and, if so, if he will establish a school specifically to meet the requirements of these children. [6386/98]
The pilot programme to which the Deputy refers was initiated in the 1995-6 school year for children with autism.
Under that programme a number of special classes dedicated specifically to the needs of these children were established. The programme involves the allocation of extra teachers to specifically address the educational needs of children with autism; the delivery of specially tailored education programmes to meet the needs of these children; and the delivery of special in-service support to the teachers concerned.
My Department's inspectorate has commenced a review of the operation of the pilot programme. The review, which is expected to be completed by the end of the current school year, will provide a basis for the development of future responses to the educational needs of children with autism.
