Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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190. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her views that applied behaviour analysis is a scientifically based system that has proven its worth and in the long term would save the State money; if she will change her Department to reflect these views; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38634/14]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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My Department's policy is to promote a child-centred approach to education of all children with special educational needs including those with autism.

As each child with autism is unique they should have access to a range of different approaches to meet their individual needs. This facilitates access to individualised education programmes which can be supported by Special Needs Assistants and fully qualified professional teachers who may draw from a range of autism-specific interventions, including Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), Treatment and Education of Autistic Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH) and Picture Exchange Communications System (PECS) as well as the appropriate school curriculum with the option, where possible, of full/partial integration and interaction with other pupils.

The use of ABA as part of the range of interventions is particularly useful for addressing behavioural issues. My Department supports the use of ABA and training is provided for teachers in its use. However, the Department does not accept, based on research, advice and best practice, that ABA should be the only approach used. While ABA helps to improve behaviour, other approaches, such as a number of those to which I have referred are just as important in developing children's communication and speech skills.

The Deputy may be aware that the NCSE is currently preparing policy advice on the education of children with autism. Their report which is due in 2015 will identify the nature and extent of educational intervention/s, teaching practices and other supports which should be provided to enable children with autism to achieve educational outcomes appropriate to their needs and abilities and will inform future policy development. The Deputy's question on the worth of ABA can be considered in the context of the policy advice.