Parents of children with autism call for appropriate education and therapeutic services to be provided.
Ruairí Claffey is a pupil in the autism unit at Ballinamere National School in County Offaly. While his educational needs have not yet been formally assessed, the eight year old who has language and communication difficulties receives just half an hour of speech and language therapy per week.
Finola Claffey explains how more specialised speech therapy would greatly improve her son's life.
It would be easier for him.
Early intervention is key for children who are on the autism spectrum. There is a clear need for more resources, says Gerry Loughlin from Laois Offaly Families for Autism. In Ruairí Claffey's case, he gets
About a fifth of what he needs. Most kids don’t even get that.
The Report of the Task Force on Autism was published four years ago, but none of its recommendations have been implemented, according to parents of autistic children. Their concern is that services their children are attending will be withdrawn if they campaign too vociferously.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 22 April 2005. The reporter is Emma O’Kelly.
