Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 31 May 2000

Vol. 520 No. 2

Written Answers. - Autism Services.

John McGuinness

Question:

117 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the charter for persons with autism has been accepted by his Department; if each health board is aware of the charter and is working with the Irish Society for Autism to achieve its objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15637/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

This Government recognises that persons with disabilities, including those with autism, have the same fundamental rights as any other group in our society. This includes the right to participate fully in the social, economic, political and cultural activities of their communities. Recognition of that right is vital if an inclusive society is to be achieved in which everybody can contribute their experiences, talents and abilities.

The development of health and social services to person with an intellectual disability and those with autism are based, within the limits of available resources, on a recognition of the right of persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism to quality services which respect their dignity, are provided within the least restrictive environment and aim at the greatest possible inclusion in society; the development of services in accordance with the principles underpinning the United Nations Standard Rules on the Equalisation of Opportunities for Persons with a Disability; and the principles of equity, quality of services and accountability and the concept of health and social gain which underpin the health strategy.

These principles are in keeping with those outlined in the Charter of Rights for Persons with Autism referred to by the Deputy. This charter was adopted by the European Parliament in 1996 and was forwarded to the Governments of all the member states. I understand that it was also widely circulated to other interested parties at that time.

In relation to the Irish Society for Autism, I understand that the society has been working with the health boards over the past number of years in the provision of services for persons with autism. Decisions in relation to the allocation of funding for new developments in services to persons with disabilities are a matter for individual health boards and are taken in line with the priorities which have been identified for each region through the established planning and consultative structures. It is important, therefore, that the society continues to liaise, on an on-going basis, with the health boards and the planning and consultative committees to ensure that the necessary services are being provided to meet the identified priority needs of those with autism in the regions.