Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I raise this matter in order to hear an update from the Minister on the situation in Lucan Educate Together national school. The issue has been raised with me by parents of children with autism who attend Lucan Educate Together national school. Music and art therapy has been provided for the children at the school and this initiative has been very successful.

Despite a shortage of therapists in this area the school has been successful in retaining the services of music and art therapists. This therapy was of great value to the students. However, funding has not been provided to allow the therapy to continue in the next school year. The school has provided all documentation necessary for the continuance of the required funding.

It is important that children with autism can be catered for in a mainstream national school, such as the Lucan Educate Together national school, rather than having to go outside their local area for their education. The school took this initiative and it is good that the Department has supported it. However, much more support is needed to make sure the resources are available for these classes. This is just one of the aspects involved.