Senator Michael Carrigy welcomes launch of Autism Innovation Strategy
Senator Michael Carrigy, Fine Gael senator from Longford and former Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Autism, has welcomed the government's launch of its Autism Innovation Strategy.
The strategy will run for 18 months and is aimed at making Irish society more inclusive for autistic people.
Senator Carrigy stated “I am proud to have been involved in the development of this important strategy, particularly in my capacity as the former Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Autism.
“The Autism Innovation Strategy represents a significant step forward in our commitment to improving the lives of everyone with a disability. By addressing the unique challenges faced by autistic people, we are not only ensuring that their needs are met, but we are also fostering a more inclusive and understanding society for all.”
The Autism Innovation Strategy identifies simple, clear actions that can make a real difference to people’s lives, and is designed to complement and enhance wider action on disability by focusing on areas where autistic people face unique challenges and barriers.
The strategy is structured around four key pillars: an autism-affirming society that encourages acceptance and understanding of autism; equal access to public services for autistic people; creating communities that are accessible to and inclusive of autistic people's needs; and building the capacity of organisations, communities, and public services to effectively support autistic people.
The development of the strategy involved extensive public consultation, capturing the views of autistic people, their families, and the professionals and organisations that support them. Special attention was given to reaching underrepresented groups, including children and non-speaking, or minimally speaking autistic individuals, to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach.
Senator Carrigy concluded, “This strategy will make a meaningful difference in the lives of autistic people and their families. It reflects our commitment to creating a society that is inclusive, supportive, and affirming for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.”
The publication of the strategy was announced by An Taoiseach Simon Harris, the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Roderic O’Gorman TD, and the Minister of State for Disability Anne Rabbitte TD, on Monday, August 26.
Taoiseach Harris said “Publication of this strategy represents the realisation of a clear commitment to action on autism in our programme for government. This commitment was made recognising the fact that autistic people in our society face a variety of challenges, and that there are gaps which we need to address in existing services and supports, along with misconceptions and gaps in terms of understanding autism.
“But the strategy also recognises that the perspective, talents, and contributions of autistic people across society add immeasurably to the quality, the richness and the diversity of Irish life.”