Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 4 Apr 2000

Vol. 517 No. 3

Written Answers. - Special Educational Needs.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

311 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the long-term educational needs of autistic children, with particular reference to the provision of teacher training and the implementation of an appropriate educational plan during their second level education; if, in particular, he will ensure that teacher training needs and the provision of classroom assistants are met; that special training for the needs of autistic children might be included in the teacher training syllabus for both primary and secondary training colleges; the plans, if any, he has to establish a long-term plan involving his Department, Department of Health, Beechpark and parents with a view to identifying the best methods to proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9824/00]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

The question of the provision and delivery of support services for all categories of pupils with special educational needs at both primary and second level, including those with autism, is under active consideration within my Department. The two expert groups which were appointed on teachers' pre-service education are reviewing the need for training in this particular area. A very small number of teachers, at both levels, will work with pupils who present with autism. It is considered that the most appropriate way to meet their training needs is through the provision of specialised courses for teachers at post-graduate level.

The involvement of the Department of Health and Children, schools and the parents in planning for these pupils is also being considered at present.