Dáil debates

Friday, 8 March 2013

Autism Bill 2012: Second Stage [Private Members]

 

12:20 pm

Photo of Frank FeighanFrank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not know whether that is a put down.

Given the day that is in it, I would hate to deny Deputy McCarthy the honour of replying to the many poignant contributions from all sides of the House that support the legislation. I thank the Deputy for introducing the Bill. It will be a template for future Governments to deal with autism and to harness the potential of many autistic children and adults. It will be a road map for the provision of services. The Bill is worthy and I thank him for the work he has put in. It is great that he has cross-party support.

In my own county, the Brothers of Charity provide great services and in every area similar organisations provide these specialised and intensive services and we should acknowledge them. A number of films have been mentioned but "Under the Piano" has always touched my heart. It highlighted how families can sometimes be divided on how best to address the needs of autistic children and how to tap their potential. Over the years, we probably have not understood the difficulties because the differences in these children were not appreciated. However, we have come a long way and the Bill will help the Minister, the Government and the relevant organisations regarding how best to map a future for autism services.

I look forward to Deputy McCarthy's reply. We need an understanding of these issues. We are elected by people who have various issues they want raised. We are a voice for them and I am delighted the voice of those with autism has risen through the various levels of democracy to reach the floor of the Dáil, where decisions can be made and Ministers can be influenced. I am sure the Minister for Health understands all the issues and problems relating to autism and how best to deal with them. This debate is democracy at work.

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