Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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298. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he approves of the use of a restraint method Figure of Four@ TMAV technique as an intervention for children with autism who have toileting or self-harming issues; if his attention has been drawn to any school that provides education for children with autism where this method is being employed; if there is documentation on the numbers of children, the duration of use and the outcomes for the children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23057/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The restraint method to which the Deputy has referred has not been brought the attention of my Department. The Special Education Support Service of my Department provides training in the use of certain methodologies in managing behaviours. The models which are utilised by the SESS are in line with the models identified by the British Institute of Learning Disabilities (BILD). If the Deputy has concerns or information about any practice in a school which, in his view, constitutes a risk or threat to the safety, health or wellbeing of any pupil, he should, in the first instance bring such information to the attention of the HSE. In addition, I would welcome any further information from the Deputy in relation to this model and any school in which it is being operated whether or not such concerns exist.