Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Senator Wilson and I commend Senator Reilly on the great work that he has done in respect of this Bill. Senator Reilly has talked to me about the Bill. He has been a passionate campaigner for autism services and he has canvassed far and wide for people to support his Bill. I am delighted to be here this evening with my colleague to support Senator Reilly and move the legislation forward.

I wish to note a small matter. The Minister spoke at length about a timeframe. I know that he may need to conduct some legal checks and whatever else. Having read the Bill, I believe it is realistic and I would be surprised if it generated many hiccups. We have already heard a bombshell of news about a timeframe this evening. We would be delighted if the Minister surprised us by shortening the timeframe for the Bill.

Through my own experience with autism in Mullingar, I know that great work is being done by the Saplings school there and by Autism Ireland at its centre in Multyfarnham. Much work has been done in the general Westmeath area in terms of autism and many of it has been self-funded. There are hardworking groups in Mullingar. Saplings Limited is a great example in how to provide autism services and care for really young people. Praxis Care and a few other organisations provide care in the region and are trying to secure a larger foothold in the community. I appreciate all of their efforts. We have a reasonable base so we should be able to move autism care forward. Education is very important and I thank Senator Reilly for bringing forward very good legislation.