Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 1505: To ask the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question Number 547 of 29 October 2008, the steps he is taking to meet the educational requirements of autistic children; the implications of Budget 2009 on these plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1279/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware of the Government's commitment to ensuring that all children with special educational needs, including those with autism, can have access to an education appropriate to their needs preferably in school settings through the primary and post primary school network. This facilitates access to individualised education programmes, fully qualified professional teachers, special needs assistants and the appropriate school curriculum.

The criteria for allocating additional teaching and/or special needs assistant support for children with special educational needs, including autism, were not changed as part of the budget announcements. The rate of capitation funding payable in respect of special classes for autism attached to mainstream primary schools and special schools for children with autism was significantly increased from €880 per pupil to €986 per pupil.

The establishment of a network of autism-specific special classes in schools across the country to cater for children with autism has been a key educational priority in recent years. In excess of 345 classes have now been approved around the country at primary and post primary level, including many in special schools.

Children in these classes benefit from having fully-qualified teachers who have access to training in a range of autism-specific interventions, including Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA), the Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH) and the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). These students have the option, where appropriate, of full/partial integration and interaction with other pupils. Funding is also provided for assistive technology and specialist equipment as required and special school transport arrangements may also be put in place.

My Department has put in place a training programme for teachers in autism-specific interventions including TEACCH, PECS and ABA through the Special Education Support Service.