95. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health the number of children who have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and who are issued with the long-term illness card; the services this inclusion affords them; the areas where children have such a diagnosis but are not awarded a long-term illness card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8659/16]

As this is an operational matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up.