Hanafin rejects O'Rourke criticism on ABA

Minister for Education Mary Hanafin has rejected criticism of her department from her Fianna Fáil colleague Mary O'Rourke.

During a debate on autism last week, Mrs O'Rourke said she believed there was a 'lingering animosity' within the department towards the provision of ABA therapy for autistic children.

However, Ms Hanafin insisted again today that the Government was "very supportive" of all methods involved in educating autistic children and other children with special needs.