Over 14,000 pupils shown to be autistic

By Mary Dennehy

THE findings of a new special education report, which found that one in 65 students had autism, highlights the need for more resources at both primary and secondary level, a Dublin South West TD has said.

Carried out by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), the report, which has been adopted by the Cabinet, found more than 14,000 students have an autism diagnosis.

According to the figures, one in 65 school children in the State have an autism diagnosis, which is much higher than the one in 100 estimated just three years ago.

Dublin South West Fianna Fáil TD John Lahart said: “This research is further evidence of the need to increase funding for autism and special needs services.

“There are around 14,000 children, diagnosed with the condition in our schools, and the services available are not up to scratch.

“I was particularly struck while canvassing during the election at the challenges facing parents of children with autism and by the children themselves.

“If it wasn’t for the Trojan efforts of local voluntary organisations such as Social Circle, families would feel virtually abandoned.”

He added: “Unfortunately the supports provided by the State are not enough.

“There are long backlogs for assessment in the first instance, and even when a child is diagnosed with autism, not all schools are equipped to cater for the complex needs of every student. This needs to be addressed without delay.

“This report should act as a wake-up call for the Government about a possible service crisis.

“We are already failing to cater for the needs of children in schools and this research reveals that there are more children with autism than had been previously estimated.

“I am calling on the Government, ahead of the October Budget, to put the needs of children with autism and special needs on its priority list.

“We should be giving children the best possible opportunities and that requires proper investment in their education and health needs.”

The Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD, has established an implementation group to consider the recommendations.

To view the full research, visit www.ncse.ie