Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

31. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her plans that more detailed information guidelines for parents and guardians of children and young persons with autism spectrum disorder will be published by the National Council for Special Education when it produced its policy advice on educational supports for children with autism spectrum disorder in spring 2015. [37878/14]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The National Council Special Education (NCSE) has recently published an information pamphlet for parents/guardians of children and young people with Autism Spectrum disorder. The pamphlet is one in a series of pamphlets aimed at informing parents and guardians of supports and services available for children and young people with special educational needs.

As the Deputy is aware the NCSE is currently preparing policy advice on the education of children with autism. Their report which is due early in 2015 will identify the nature and extent of educational interventions, teaching practices and other supports which should be provided to enable children with autism to achieve educational outcomes appropriate to their needs and abilities. This advice will inform future policy development in this area.

I will await the publication of the NCSE Policy advice before considering whether the NCSE should publish more detailed guidelines for parents and guardians of young persons with autism. I would note that the NCSE has a strong track record of delivering appropriate and comprehensive guidance and support to parents, and I have every confidence this will continue to be the case.