Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 110: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the case of a school (details supplied) in County Waterford; if she will ensure that the fundamental and constitutional right of a child to an education is upheld; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25807/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware of my commitment to ensuring that all children, including those with autism receive an education appropriate to their needs. Educational provision for children with autistic spectrum disorders is now provided in 15 early intervention special classes, 164 special classes in mainstream schools and special schools and in a number of special centres. Additional teaching and other supports are provided for students with ASD who are fully integrated into mainstream school settings.

My Department also funds a pilot scheme for 12 centres where ABA is the exclusive approach. Sanction has been given for 14 centres under the scheme and two have yet to open, one of which is the centre referred to by the Deputy. Accommodation issues have delayed the progression of the project to date and officials in my Department are liaising with the Board of Management concerned to further advance the opening of the unit.