Written answers

Tuesday, 21 November 2006

Department of Education and Science

Special Educational Needs

9:00 am

Photo of Fergus O'DowdFergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 543: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of an ABA school for Dundalk, County Louth (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38994/06]

Photo of Mary HanafinMary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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My Department is of the view that children with autism, in common with all children should have access to appropriate provision delivered by suitably qualified teachers within the school system where children can mix with their wider peer group and have maximum opportunities for integration. The preferred approach to the provision of appropriate education for children with autism, is through the primary and post primary school network, whether through placement in mainstream classes, in special classes or in special schools, a view that is supported by the findings of the Task Force Report on Autism.

My Department's ongoing commitment is to ensuring that all children, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, receive an education appropriate to their needs. An application was recently received from the group in question to participate in the pilot scheme which has facilitated the establishment of a number of ABA-specific autism units nationwide. My officials requested that the psychological assessments of the children proposing to attend the proposed centre should be forwarded to the Department for consideration. My Department is awaiting the necessary reports.

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