Joint Committee on Autism to resume discussions on Autism Policy

The meeting will be split into two sessions and will hear from representatives from:

11am-12.30pm:

• Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) , Frances O’Connell, Vice President Student Education and Experience, Dr Carolann Bargary, Head of Access and Disability Services, Lisa Hanlon, Head of Disability Services; and
• Irish Society for Autism, Dr Pat Matthews, Executive Director, Ms Tara Matthews, Deputy Executive Director.

12.30pm-2pm:

• Limerick City and County Council, Mr Damien Brady, Limerick City and County Librarian, Ms Patricia Cusack, Executive Librarian at Watch House Cross Library, Moyross; and
• County and City Management Association (CCMA), Ms Norma Purtill, Senior Staff Officer at Limerick City and County Council.

Committee Cathaoirleach Senator Micheál Carrigy said: “This meeting continues our engagements on Autism Policy and how it effects the daily lives of people with autism and their families. Areas to be covered at this meeting will include supports within third level education and beyond, and the supports that are currently available to autistic people in accessing housing that is suited to their needs, and how these supports could be improved.

“Members are also interested in discussing the other ways in which local authorities can support the autistic community, as well as hearing about how the library services in Limerick are working to include and support autistic people. The Committee looks forward to a wide-ranging discussion with all our stakeholders on these topics and related matters.”

The Joint Committee on Autism has 13 Members, eight from the Dáil and five from the Seanad.

The meeting in Committee Room 4 can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.