Hanafin criticised for not seeking autism advice

EMBATTLED Education Minister Mary Hanafin was last night attacked for failing to seek advice from an expert body on the row raging over the needs of autistic pupils.

Ms Hanafin admits she did not consult the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) on the issue in answer to a parliamentary question from Fine Gael disability spokesperson David Stanton.

Mr Stanton states legislation says the NCSE is there to advise the minister on matters relating to special education.