Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The NCSE is the body that advises me. I do not make the decision as to whether a special class is needed. The figures show that the number of ASD units is growing more rapidly at second level than at primary level, albeit as the Deputy said that there are more units at primary level at present. There will be 281 units this coming September at second level. It is the NCSE that advises on the issue. I am told by it that in general it is satisfied that there are sufficient ASD special class placements to meet demand. As the Deputy is aware the NCSE has published a review of policy in relation to autism generally and it has drawn attention to practice at second level, which needs to be followed. It is the advice of the NCSE that informs the choices that are made each year as to where and when ASD units are opened.

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