Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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196. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views on whether the July provision should be provided for children with special needs (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17020/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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My Department currently provides July Provision for children with a diagnosis of ASD and/or severe or profound general learning disability. It is not currently proposed to extend the 2016 July Provision Scheme to further disability categories. The 2016 July Provision scheme commenced in April 2016, the deadline for receipt of applications was May 13th 2016. As the Deputy is aware the Programme for a Partnership Government, published in May 2016, includes a commitment to examine the adequacy of current special education access and funding provision, in particular for children with Down syndrome.

In addition the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has submitted its Policy Advice on Educational Provision for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

In developing this policy advice, the NCSE reviewed a range of provision for children with Autism including the Department's July Provision scheme. The NCSE consulted widely with parents, professionals and other stakeholders and interested parties while also conducting research.

An implementation group has now been established to review the recommendations of this policy advice. Any recommendations which relate to the July Provision Scheme will be fully considered by this group which will prepare an implementation plan for my consideration.