John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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338. To ask the Minister for Health the status of a pilot autism strategy to examine the existing services and supports available to individuals with autism and their families in the south east, with a view to improving services and learning from the lived experiences of those involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29072/18]

John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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377. To ask the Minister for Health the status of a pilot autism strategy to examine the existing services and supports available to persons with autism and their families in the south east in order to improve services and learning from the lived experiences of those involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29279/18]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 338 and 377 together.

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy's questions relate to service matters, I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.