GRACE CAPPOCK,
Madam, - I write in relation to the letter in your edition of October 21st under the heading "Treatment of Autistic Children".
In this letter, from the mother of a 20-year-old with autism, it was contended that this Department had informed the centre at which he resides that it was not proceeding with the appointment of a teacher and special needs assistant for her son. I write to clarify that at no stage was such notification given by this Department to the centre concerned.
Following a telephone call from the centre last Friday the Department indicated to the centre that it would revert to it on Monday, October 21st. The Department did this and confirmed that the teacher and special needs assistant resources would be provided as promised. The centre has confirmed to the Department that at no stage was it informed that the resources would not be provided. The centre has also indicated that it will contact the family involved to confirm the situation. - Yours etc.,
GRACE CAPPOCK,
Press Officer,
Department of Education
and Science,
Marlborough Street,
Dublin 1.