James Reilly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is nothing to stop the Minister from giving an annual report. There is nothing to stop anyone from the floor of either House seeking an annual report or an update. I did think long and hard about not putting that provision in, but having had the experience of being a Minister I wanted to avoid three of the 12 months being taken up by the Department in the preparation of a report for the end of the year.I want it to be implementing this and delivering service to people. There are parents in the Visitors Gallery. Senators who are parents, including me, and the Minister, who has personal experience in this area, realise we need to put the services in place and focus on that. We require coherent, organised services that deliver for those with autism and that enable their families to support them in reaching their maximum potential and becoming as independent as possible. I thank the Senator and understand the sentiment completely.