Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2015
539. Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Education and Skills why the term unit is used to describe special needs classes; if this term is seen by many families as suggesting that their children should be contained or kept separate from other children; if she will change this term; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44075/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that the policy of my Department is that children with special educational needs, including children with autism, should be included, where possible and appropriate, in mainstream school placements with additional supports provided. In circumstances where children with special educational need require more specialised interventions, special school or special class places are also available.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has recently submitted their Policy Advice on Educational Provision for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
In developing this policy advice, the NCSE has consulted widely with parents, professionals and other stakeholders and interested parties while also conducting research. The NCSE has advised that during this consultation process stakeholders raised concerns in relation to the use of the term "unit" in relation to ASD classes.
The policy advice is currently under consideration in my Department. My officials will consider and report to me on any recommendations in the report which relate to the issue raised by the Deputy.
In the interim I will continue to keep this issue under review.
