Vol. 525 No. 4
160 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the action he will take in response to the submission made to him by Lucan Educate Together national school, County Dublin, with regard to the setting up of outreach classes for children with autism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25331/00]
My Department has recently sanctioned the establishment of two special classes for pupils with autism in the Lucan Educate Together school. I understand that the classes will be operational in January 2001.
Each class will cater for a maximum of six pupils. Two permanent teaching posts and two permanent special needs assistant posts have already been sanctioned by my Department for the classes.
I recently announced my decision to double the level of special needs assistant support provided to each special class catering for children with autism. In keeping with this decision, arrangements are currently being made in my Department to provide two additional special needs assistant posts to the school in question.
