John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 71: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the support and funding for ABA schools for children on the autistic spectrum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33504/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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It is understood that the Deputy's question refers to the ABA pilot scheme which was funded by my Department for the past decade. All of the centres which participated in this scheme have been granted recognition as special schools for children with autism. These schools will operate in line with my Department's policy. Following their recognition the new schools are currently progressing well in the transitional phase. All thirteen schools have opened and it is my intention to continue to support this transitional process.

The pilot scheme was established in the absence of a network of school-based special classes for children with autism which is now available. The establishment of this 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 450 classes have now been approved around the country at primary and post primary level, including many in special schools.