Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chair and thank the Department officials for their briefing. I am going to be brief and precise with my question. It relates to autism spectrum disorder, ASD, units. I understand Ms Mannion's section is heading that up and co-ordinating things but as a local elected representative in Laois-Offaly I am getting some concerns from schools that feel things are not happening quickly enough and ASD units are not on track for this September. There is a bit of panic. What way are things co-ordinated between the special educational needs organiser, SENO, the principal and the Department? Is there close co-ordination and ongoing collaboration? That is vital. I know of cases where parents who are very frustrated are working closely with a principal, and in some cases a SENO, but what extra resources will be put in there to ensure these units are on track and are delivered by September? I appreciate there are pressures and increased numbers in the system. In the autism units that have been opened the numbers have soared and I see that clearly. What reassurance can I give those principals and those parents that the Department has this in hand? In some cases I stress it may entail a second unit where one has already been delivered and now there is demand in the area for another. What is the plan? Are they being fast-tracked and, more important, will they be delivered in time?