John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 167: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when the autism unit will be set up in a school (details supplied) in County Sligo as the only other applied behaviour unit available is in Donegal or Swinford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16122/04]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I am most anxious that all children, including children with autistic spectrum disorders, receive education appropriate to their needs. My Department is actively considering an application to establish an autistic class in the school referred to by the Deputy. This process involves liaison with my Department's inspectorate, the National Educational Psychological Service — NEPS — and the relevant school authorities. This process is ongoing and my officials are maintaining ongoing contact with the school. A response to the application will issue as quickly as possible.

John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 168: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he will intervene on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo who has autism to ensure that when the person starts transition and beyond in rehabilitation that the person's needs will be specifically catered for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16125/04]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I confirm that my Department has received correspondence concerning a transition programme for the person referred to by the Deputy. My officials are liaising with the relevant health board and school authorities with a view to facilitating the transition.