UK Disability Resource of Disabled Needs

Minister's brave move on autism

Monday, September 17, 2007

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey's announcement (September 5) of a ministerial review into autism is not good news for the autism community in Northern Ireland - it is excellent news! It is of extreme importance to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families and carers.

I would like to congratulate Mr McGimpsey for his courageous move. He has opened a way for autism to be recognised as a unique condition which needs specific action.

The autism community in Northern Ireland needs a dedicated Programme of Care within the framework of a Northern Ireland Autism Strategy, underpinned by legislation through a Northern Ireland Autism Act.

I would also like to congratulate the Minister on the choice of such high calibre members of the ministerial team, all sharing an interest in autism.

This bold step will be a landmark in the history of ASD provision in a UK and world setting. Indeed, the team will be in Washington later this month looking at autism legislation passing through Congress.

DAVID HEATLEY Antrim
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