Dr. Aoife O'Donohue:

We are just in the final stages of developing the autism protocol, for which there has been co-development and co-design. The protocol states clearly that if somebody believes he or she requires an autism assessment, there is a tiered approach. For some people who require the assessment, the clinical pathway is quite clear. For some people who present with symptoms of autism, an ongoing assessment is required. The protocol sets out a three-tiered approach. What is fundamental is the need for timely intervention. For people who require that level of support, we must ensure we are intervening and supporting them to reach their potential.