Dr. Michelle Kelly:

The UNCRPD states that all persons with disabilities have a right to their own opinion and to choose. This is a sensitive and controversial topic we are discussing, but we need to recognise that Dr. Mulhern and Ms O’Keefe have a right to their opinions and not to get death threats if they choose to speak positively about their experiences with something. We are listening and we want to hear from the autistic community. The Cathaoirleach asked whether the autistic community is not being listened to. We want to hear the experiences, but we want to ensure those experiences are shared in a manner that is in line with people's human rights such that people will not push back against others sharing their opinions. We all have a right to choose and informed choice is important. People can be informed about a positive behaviour support approach. If they choose not to engage with that, that is absolutely fine. However, the information needs to be available for people to make those choices. That is very much in line with the UNCRPD.