James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 482: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be assured that their son, who has autism, has their future assured at their special needs school or if this child will be expected to bear the brunt of cutbacks. [9563/09]

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 495: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be assured that their son, who has autism, has their future assured at their special needs school or if this child will be expected to bear the brunt of cutbacks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9562/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 495 and 482 together.

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the criteria for allocating additional teaching and/or special needs assistant support for children with autism have not changed. Furthermore the rate of capitation funding payable in respect of special classes for autism attached to both mainstream primary schools and special schools was significantly increased from €880 per pupil to €986 per pupil.

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, special and post-primary school network. This facilitates access to individualised education programmes, fully qualified professional teachers, special needs assistants and the appropriate school curriculum.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 483: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if he has received an application for special needs assistance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; if this application will be expedited in view of their exceptional needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9486/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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My officials are in contact with the child's parent concerning an application for home tuition funding. A decision on the application will be made as speedily as possible.