Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank very sincerely the Regional Independent Group for introducing this important Bill for debate. Its purpose is to provide for the development and implementation of a cross-departmental, multi-agency autism spectrum disorder strategy. This is an awful lot of words but, in plain English, it means we want young people to be assessed quickly. The constituents who are coming to me about autism issues indicate the need for early detection, early intervention and speedy access to the required services.

The Bill provides for the content of the strategy, assigns responsibility for its implementation, provides a transparent process for the monitoring of the implementation of the strategy, and also provides guidance on its implementation. It is so important that autism, including Asperger's syndrome, be recognised early. We now know that probably one in 68 have the condition. We believed at one time that one in 500 had it, and before that, in the 1960s, it was believed that one in 5,000 were affected. Since one in 68 are affected, it is a serious issue for parents. I deal every day with young parents who are really struggling to gain access to services and timely care and intervention for their children. Regardless of what group we are in as politicians, it is our job to work for these people and support the implementation of the strategies that are required.

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