FAQs

These FAQs are intended as a support for the parents and guardians of children with autistic spectrum disorders. The responses reflect the very significant development in services, structures and legislative provision since autism was recognised by the government as a distinct special educational in 1998. At the macro level, the priority of the Department of Education and Science (DoES) is the implementation of the fundamental legislative and structural measures which are essential to underpin the development and delivery of services for persons with autism.

On the legislative front, the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 (EPSEN) now enacted, sets out the rights and entitlements of children with special needs including autism, to an appropriate education service and providing the necessary framework for effective service delivery.

On the structural front, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) which will have a local area presence, will play a key role in the development and delivery of services for persons with special needs, including persons with autism. It will have a research and advisory role and will establish expert groups to address particular areas of special needs provision. It will also establish a consultative forum to facilitate inputs from the education partners and other interested parties.

Significant progress has been made in the establishment of the National Council. Seventy special education needs organisers (SENOS) have recently been recruited and will provide a focal point of contact for schools and parents. They will also process individual applications for resources for special educational needs. It is anticipated that the Council and the SENOs will become operational shortly and these FAQs will then be updated to reflect the redistribution of responsibilities for service provision.