James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

This area requires closer co-operation between the Departments of Education and Skills, Children and Youth Affairs, and Health. That is why I proposed to my ministerial colleagues that we should have a principal officer appointed across the three Departments, with the lead coming from the Department of Health. They have accepted this in principle. The matter has not been finalised but is close to being finalised. I hope this will inform all parties on the needs of children with autism and other disabilities. The principal officer should cover all disabilities associated with children.

I certainly look forward to co-operation leading to greater availability of a wide range of services to children with autism. I hope the issue of ABA schools will be among those being considered.

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