Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 3 Nov 1998

Vol. 495 No. 7

Written Answers. - Autism Services.

John Perry

Ceist:

446 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are no autism facilities available in County Sligo; the plans, if any, he has in place to provide this essential school facility to cater for this need; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that no parent respite facilities are available; when this service will be provided; if funds have been allocated in this regard; if so, the amount of moneys allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21481/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The provision of educational services to children with autism is the responsibility of the Department of Education and Science. I understand that a number of children with autism attend educational facilities attached to Cregg House.

I understand from the North-Western Health Board that respite facilities for persons with autism are currently available within the mental handicap residential facilities in the region. Planning is also at an advanced stage for the provision of a residential unit attached to the special educational facilities at Cregg House which will provide respite services for children with autism. Funding of £75,000 has been allocated to this service in 1998 and it is expected that the unit will be completed in 1999.