Autism Unit

The Abbey Community College in Boyle is being approved to deliver classes in Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
 
It's one of 39 schools nationwide to get the go ahead for the programme, which starts this September.
 
Roscommon based Senator John Kelly who’s welcoming the announcement, says it's important that these classes, which facilitate the education of children with severe autism, are part of the mainstream system, thereby aiding their integration into the wider school community.
 
It is expected that these classes will assist six children with ASD, which will be delivered by a dedicated teacher and two special needs assistants.

Local TD Frank Feighan is also welcoming the announcement.

Source: shannonside.ie, 1st Sept, 2011

Specialised facilities for children with autism have been announced for four Galway schools this term.

The Autism Spectrum Disorder Units aim to integrate children with severe autism into the wider school community.

These facilities will be provided in Merlin Woods National School in Doughiska, Gort Community School, Archbishop McHale College in Tuam and Gairmscoil Mhuire in Athenry.

The 6 pupil classes are delivered by a dedicated teacher with the support of two special needs assistants.

Source: Galway News, 1st Sept 2011

New autism unit for Ardscoil Phadraig
By Aisling Kiernan

This article appeared in The Longford Leader newspaper 23 September 2009

It's good news for one north Longford Secondary school this week with the announcement that it is to receive a new autism unit in the coming months.
This latest development means that Ardscoil Phadraig in Granard is the first second level school in Co Longford to benefit from such a facility and highlights the growing need for the incorporation of such facilities into the Irish education system.