Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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193. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the number of pupils who are attending each autistic spectrum disorder unit in a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40703/14]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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194. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her plans to increase the size of the autistic spectrum disorder unit in a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40704/14]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 194 together.

The Deputy will be aware that the establishment of a 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.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), is responsible for processing applications from primary and post primary schools for special educational needs supports, including the establishment of special classes in various geographical areas as required. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.

I have arranged for the matters raised in relation to the school and county referred to by the Deputy to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.