Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for selecting this issue for discussion today. The issue relates to an individual case presented to me, which I have pursued for some considerable time and has wide ranging implications, in particular for those with autism spectrum disorder similarly impacted as Aaron, the young person in the case involved. While this issue is being dealt with today by the Department of Health, it also comes within the remit of the Departments of Education and Skills, Social Protection and Children and Youth Affairs.

The challenges faced by Aaron's mother in her efforts to access appropriate services to cater for his particular needs have been nothing short of scandalous. Barriers and diversions were and continue to be put up at every opportunity. Aaron's diagnosis of autism was late, at 14 and a half years of age. It was a battle to get a psychological assessment for him. We know from all of the information available that diagnoses post-six years of age have far less favourable outcomes. Aaron, now 17 years of age, spends all his time alone in his room. It is for sure where he is as we speak today. As a result of his condition, he is too anxious to engage with others and too nervous to go outside. Where State intervention was needed it has always come up short. Aaron's family expect that the situation will deteriorate when he turns 18 years of age next month.

Aaron's experience of the education system has been a paltry one. Repeated efforts and attempts to get him to settle in various settings have failed. It is clear to those who have expertise in this area, including Aaron's psychiatrist and psychologist, that one-to-one home tuition is the only option. Aaron's mum has been unable to find a teacher to take up the position. The Department must intervene immediately. This is not the first line of address of this issue. As already stated, I have gone through all other reasonable approaches and felt compelled to bring it to the floor of the Dáil during Topic Issue Debates. My appeal is for the Departments of Education and Skills and Health to intervene immediately. Their record to date in this case has been shameful.

To aid Aaron's development, it is essential that home tuition is provided. It will help to alleviate many of the associated symptoms of his condition, including anxiety, nervousness and depression. Without home tuition, Aaron will become more isolated and angry. Without it, this young person will in a number of weeks become an angry young man. The prospects for him and his future are seriously impaired by the State's failure to respond appropriately to his particular circumstances and needs. In raising this issue today, I am appealing for a cross-departmental response in order to ensure that we are not too late.

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