92 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the need for funding and staff for gheel autism services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25531/01]

The issues which have been raised in respect of the service in question have been brought to the attention of my Department. The provision of services to persons with autism in the Dublin area is a matter in the first instance for the Eastern Regional Health Authority. I understand from the authority that, as part of the overall review of autism services which is currently under way in the region, arrangements are being made to review the services provided by the agency in question. The question of representation on the board of management of the agency would be a matter for discussion between the families and friends association and the agency.