Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 581: To ask the Minister for Education and Science his plans to fulfil the programme for Government commitment to ensure early intervention for preschool children with special educational needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17526/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As part of the recent budget, the Deputy will be aware that the Government has taken the decision to introduce a year of free preschool for all children with effect from January 2010. This is a highly significant step in the development of Ireland's early childhood care and education policy. The Government has, by announcing this decision, demonstrated our commitment to our children's social and educational development. It is a key building block in the realisation of our plan for a smart economy. The provision of a year's free preschool to all children will promote equality of opportunity at the most important developmental stage of children's lives. Regardless of income or ability to pay, all children will be entitled to avail of this preschool placement.

Meanwhile, my Department is also providing supports to preschool children with specific disabilities. 36 early intervention classes for children with autism have now been sanctioned around the country. The National Council for Special Education will continue to establish more classes as required. The classes operate at a PTR of 6:1 with a minimum of two special needs assistants. A grant for home tuition may be provided for children with autism who are unable to access an early intervention school place.

My Department also operates a visiting teacher service for deaf or hard of hearing children and children with visual impairments. Visiting teachers aim to be a support to both the parents/guardian and the child. The support service can begin shortly following the birth of the child and follow through to third-level education where appropriate.

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 582: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding his plans to develop second level education opportunities for children in the autistic spectrum on the northside of Dublin; and the facilities available in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [17538/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENO) for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support students with autism. The SENO will also consider applications from schools to establish special classes for students with autism. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie. I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.