Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for her comprehensive reply which sets out the technical nature of the DCA scheme. From dealing with the issue in my clinic and my involvement with autism charities - many Members of the House will concur - it is not being matched with the reality.

In an effort to be constructive I will highlight some issues. One is the 21 day period of appeal that families are given. In many cases families cannot access the support services they need to back up their appeals within 21 days. Families depending on access through the public service wait for a longer period of time. As I am sure do many other Members, I meet people who come to my clinic in a panic to return the form within 21 days but have not seen medical experts within that period to back up their complaints.

The Minister referred quite correctly to the disabilities the Department's medical experts examine and whether a disability will last longer than 12 months. In the case of a condition like autism, it is lifelong and there is no cure. Some of the reviews I have come across happen at the most bizarre times, such as when an autistic child turns 13 years of age, moves to secondary school or commences puberty. They are very sensitive stages in the life of a child with a disability and a family living with an autistic child. Such reviews can be insensitive.

The problem I and the families I talk to see is that autism is not, strictly speaking, a medical condition. It is a neurodevelopmental condition. It is not the same as being in a wheelchair, with the many challenges that poses. It is different and varies from child to child.

Representatives of autism support groups have met with Department officials and have expressed concern about the DCA operational guidelines for deciding officers. I understand the officials acknowledged there may be an issue and it might be an area the Minister can examine. The Minister might also provide us with up-to-date data on the period of time it takes to assess an appeal, particularly if it has been refused.

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