Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 1626: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide a specialist teacher for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1883/07]

Mary 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.

I am aware of the circumstances of the person to whom the Deputy refers and have been advised that an appropriate school placement is available with access to qualified teachers should they avail of this placement.

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 1627: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if she has received an application for an autistic unit for County Mayo from concerned parents; if she will give approval and funding for such a unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1885/07]

Mary 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.

I wish to confirm that my Department has received the application referred to by the Deputy. My officials have requested additional information in support of the application and it will receive further consideration following receipt of this information.