Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not believe any child with ASD should be expelled from schools. Children and young people with autism should be supported and the necessary supports should be provided to facilitate their continued participation in education in an appropriate setting. It may emerge, sometimes, that a setting may not be the most appropriate, depending on where the child is on the autism spectrum. All schools should be open to providing places for children with additional needs. I have engaged with the Minister of State with special responsibility in this area, Deputy Madigan, the Minister for Education, Deputy Foley, and the Department, through the relevant Cabinet sub-committee, regarding special education provision, with a view to increasing places and prioritising the needs and concerns of children with special needs. That remains a key focus of the Ministers responsible and the Government.

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