Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)

The Act is, therefore, being implemented on the phased basis that was specifically provided for in the legislation as voted for in this House. There has been no delay. Much of the Act has been implemented and the rest of it will be in place by October 2010. By that time, special education in this country will have been revolutionised and children will have a world-class level of service that would have seemed unthinkable only a few short years ago.

The Government has placed a particular focus on improving services for children with autism. I acknowledge, as I have done on previous occasions, the huge dedication and commitment of parents of children with autism in the face of a disability that brings with it major challenges not just for the child concerned but for his or her entire family. I have met many parents of children with autism all over the country and I admire and respect their commitment to their children and the sacrifices they make to assist their development.

I welcome the chance to outline tonight what we are doing in this area and why we genuinely believe it is in the best interests of the children with autism.

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