Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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309. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the decision made to alter the July home provision for children with autism; his views on whether the cutting of these services is fair and equitable; if his attention has been drawn to the distress and upset being caused to parents as a result of the changes made to the July home provision for children with autism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27735/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that the policy in relation to siblings has not changed. Rather the application process in previous years may have in some instances failed to identify adequately multiple applications for siblings. My Department's Information Note for Home Based July Provision notes that allocations to siblings are reflective of the school grouping principle. This is where one teacher is allocated to a class of six pupils at the appropriate educational level, primary or post primary. Accordingly it is considered appropriate, as in a school situation, that a tutor can provide tuition at the appropriate educational level to more than one sibling at that level simultaneously in the home. The Departments website and information material is being amended to further clarify the position.

The school grouping principle does not purport to replicate or mirror all aspects of school based provision. The age or ability of siblings is reflected in their education level as determined by education and health professionals. In general where a child is receiving their education in a class setting with other children of mixed age and ability, this should carry through to their July Provision.