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

I thank the Senator for her comments. The NCSE's advice is that it has not identified a need to provide an ASD special class in every school, which would mean 4,000 classes. It is interesting to examine the numbers. For example, at post-primary level, demand and provision are increasing much more rapidly, although it is starting from a lower base. There were only 100 such classes in 2011, but that number has trebled in the intervening period. There is a pattern of identified need in passing through primary level and increasing pressure at post-primary level. The Department is considering the provision of a map of ASD units across the country for parents in order that they can see where such units are available. That would be helpful as they would be better able to plan their child's education by having that support.

As the Senator said, an ASD unit is designed to accommodate six children. It is geared up with 1 and 1.5 teachers per child at primary and post-primary level, respectively. The units have SNA support and provide facilities that allow children to progress. While still in a social environment, they progress well. The NCSE's approach to identifying a child's needs is at heart of the policy we are implementing. There will be continuing growth in the number of ASD units as need is identified and we respond to it.