Autism Awareness Day provides chance to celebrate uniqueness – Mitchell O’Connor

Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire TD, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, has said we should use Autism Awareness Day tomorrow (Tuesday) as an opportunity to celebrate uniqueness, while also raising awareness about the challenges faced by those with the condition. Deputy Mitchell O’Connor also called for a standardised approach to early intervention across the country.

“There is still a stigma associated with autism, which I believe is based on a lack of understanding about the condition. Having autism should not automatically be viewed as a negative. Yes, it presents challenges, but as the story of Patrick Brophy illustrates, it can also be turned into a positive. Patrick, who is from Dun Laoghaire, was hired by the software firm SAP not just because of his qualifications, but also because of his autism. The company values people with autism because of their attention to detail and the different perspective they can bring to the workplace.

“Patrick’s experience is an uplifting and encouraging story that will hearten the parents of children with autism. Too often parents can be made to feel that their child’s condition is a burden which places a strain on the State. Instead, we should be willing to celebrate uniqueness and focus on the positive attributes that are associated with the condition.

“I believe it is also time we reconsidered the variety of teaching methods being employed for children with autism. We need a standardised approach across the country. At the moment, the level of early intervention can vary from county to county and teachers and SNAs are often not sufficiently trained on the most up-to-date strategies on how best to help children with autism. I would support the wider adoption of the ABA model, which has proven to be very beneficial in certain areas.

“Autism is a broad spectrum that deserves specific attention. The Minister for Education, Ruairi Quinn, TD, has asked the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) for policy advice relating to autism. It is important that this includes widespread consultation, and I would encourage parents to ensure their voices are heard.”

ENDS