Fine Gael commits to children with autism – Daly

FG financial framework provides substantial increase in funding for autism education

Fine Gael general election candidate Cllr Richard Daly said Fine Gael is taking a clear and costed commitment to children with autism.

“Fine Gael is committed to meeting the needs of children with an intellectual or physical disability. Our recently published General Election Manifesto put forward a number of key actions that Fine Gael will prioritise in Government after the election.

“With regard to autism, our manifesto explicitly states that where a period of intensive education – like Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) – is professionally recommended for children with autism we will support this approach.

“For too long children with autism have been shamefully overlooked by Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats. Special autism units are working for some children with autism, but for others a more intensive approach is needed. However, this Government refuses to fully acknowledge the benefits of ABA education, leaving many children with autism without the education that fits for them.

“Fine Gael believes that, in education, one size does not fit all. In Government we will recognise more ABA schools for funding, giving children with autism who need this type of education the assistance they are currently waiting for.

“This is no empty pre-election promise. Fine Gael has budgeted for increased financial support for the education of children with autism, and our financial framework shows Fine Gael will spend an additional €45 million on autism education over the lifetime of the Government.

“Fine Gael is putting its money where its mouth is – our commitment to children with special educational needs means we have made specific financial commitments to support children with autism.”

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