Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2016
506. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will re-open the autism class in a school (details supplied) in County Donegal in September 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5291/16]
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 placements with additional supports provided. In circumstances where children with Special Educational Needs require more specialised interventions, special school or special class places are also available. The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from primary and post primary schools for special educational needs supports, including the establishment of special classes in various geographical areas as required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. The NCSE will continue to monitor and review the requirement for special class places in particular areas and has capacity to establish such new special classes where necessary subject to the willingness of schools to open classes. As the matter referred to in this question relates to a specific school, I will arrange to have the Deputy's request referred to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
