Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 211: To ask the Minister for Health when the review of Autism Services will be completed and if adequate finance and resources will be made available to implement the initiatives. [23623/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Health Service Executive published the "National Review of Autism Services" on 29 February 2012.

This national review outlines the historical background, identifies current models that exist and the gaps in service provision and points to the need for a consistent clear pathway for individuals to access services in the least restrictive way. The report highlights the imperative for a clear focus on the individual and their family in ensuring that the needs of the individual remain at the centre of service provision.

Future provision of services for children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder must be in line with the Government's commitment to mainstreaming where people with a disability have access to the same services as the general population, and in addition receive the appropriate support and intervention to address individual needs. It is intended that the recommendations of this report will be implemented by the HSE through the reconfiguration of existing service provision and given the current economic climate with reducing resources in the public sector will be progressed as appropriate within available resources. This integrated approach to meeting the health needs of people with disabilities is designed to ensure that generic health needs, which can be met at primary care level, are addressed by primary care teams and that only needs, where specialist knowledge, skill or expertise is required are referred to specialist services.