Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

The usual requirement is a fully qualified teacher. However, other qualifications are acceptable, depending on the individual needs of the child. In this context, a review of qualifications is under way in consultation with the Department's inspectorate. Nominated tuition providers with qualifications other than teaching qualifications have been accepted for the first school term this year to allow time to establish the suitability of the range of qualifications submitted. As the process progresses, the parents concerned will be informed of the decision which will result in approval for subsequent terms of the nominated tuition provider or direction to recruit a tuition provider with suitable qualifications. It is important to stress that the allocation of tuition hours under the scheme is not at issue in the context of the review of qualifications in this regard.

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter as it provides me with the opportunity on behalf of the Minister to clarify the position of the Department of Education and Science in respect of the educational provision for pupils with ASD and, in particular, associated issues under the home tuition scheme.

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