Dr. ?ine Roddy:

Something struck me when Deputy Buckley asked about how to address the silos. I do not think the issue has come up so I will point it out as it is part of the root problem. There is an ongoing debate in the disability and autistic community on whether it is just about acceptance or if it is about all-intensive services. There is a lot lost in that argument as there is a place in between. Awareness and acceptance are extremely important, and then others with higher needs require more intensive services and supports. It is not a case of one or the other. That is the scapegoat used by many Departments because it is much cheaper and easier to say we will have a bit of awareness. That must be addressed. Autism awareness and acceptance is massive. It greatly influences autistic people's experiences and the level of trauma they experience, so it is not to be undermined because it is extremely important. A lot more is needed, however.

For example, the mental health of parents and grandparents was mentioned. There are many factors involved in addressing that. Over the years, when they have been trying to push forward for a national autism strategy and a Bill and everything, the option and solution has been to invest a little bit in awareness and that is it.