Róisín Shortall
Question:179 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason his Department does not provide funding to the gheel autism services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24395/01]
Written Answers. - Autism Services.
I am aware of the facility to which the Deputy refers. The facility in question is funded by the health authorities and provides day care, residential and respite services to adults who are on the autistic spectrum. My Department is not currently involved in the provision of support services to persons attending the facility in question.
The issue of education and training services for persons with autism over 18 years of age is among the matters which have been considered by the special task force on autism. I expect to receive the report of the task force by the end of this month and the views of the task force will be taken fully into account in the future development of services for persons with autism over 18 years.