Dáil debates

Wednesday, 11 May 2022

Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

 

12:52 pm

Photo of Paul DonnellyPaul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of places in autism classes in secondary schools. In Dublin 15, there are currently 30 autism classes in primary schools, which cater for a maximum of 180 students. There are nine autism classes in secondary schools, with a maximum of 54 places. Secondary school autism class enrolment operates in the same way as it does for primary schools, with six pupils per class and the provision then closing until graduation.

A recent survey relating to children in primary school found that in sixth class ten students have no secondary school autism placement with less than one month to go. Danu, the new local special school for Dublin 15, is at full capacity and will not open to new enrolments for five years. I ask the Taoiseach or a Minister to please intervene to ensure every child has access to an appropriate school placement. There will be a major public meeting on this on Monday in the Dublin 15 constituency. This is something that needs to be addressed immediately.

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