World Autism Day

Statement by Michael McCarthy TD - Labour Party TD for Cork South-West

Recognition of world autism awareness day vital - McCARTHY

World Autism Awareness Day is about generating understanding and awareness. Autism is not limited to a single region or a country; it is a worldwide challenge that requires global action.

I welcome news that this Government will acknowledge April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of children and adults, who are affected by autism, so they can lead full and meaningful lives.  

I also welcome confirmation today from my Labour colleague, Minister Kathleen Lynch, that Government Buildings and other OPW buildings will turn blue on April 2nd as part of our efforts to raise awareness on a national level. 

Although the recognition of autistic conditions among the scientific, health and care communities is improving, public awareness remains low.

Children and persons with autistic conditions face major challenges associated with stigma and discrimination, as well as a lack of access to support. Many struggle with multiple barriers in their daily lives. Far too many suffer terrible discrimination, abuse and isolation.

Autism is a complex disorder. But in many cases the right treatment early on can bring improvements. That is why it is so important to raise awareness about the signs of autism and provide services as soon as possible.

People with autism have enormous potential. Most have remarkable visual, artistic or academic skills. Recognising the talents of persons on the autism spectrum, rather than focusing on their weaknesses, is essential.  It is also critical to support parents and improve public awareness and education to better meet the needs of students with autism.

On 8 March 2013, politicians from every party stood up in the Dáil in support of my Autism Bill and it is vital now that we keep up the momentum to ensure that there is a cross-party movement to improve and enhance the lives of people with autism in Ireland.  

What is Autism?

Autism is a developmental disability that remains with a person for his or her whole life. This condition affects the brain's functions. The first signs usually appear before a child is three years old. People with autism often: 

• Find social interaction difficult.
• Have problems with verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Demonstrate restrictive and repetitive behavior.
• Have a limited set of interests and activities.

Autism affects girls and boys of all races and in all geographic regions and has a large impact on children, their families, communities and societies. The prevalence is currently rising in many countries around the world. Caring for and educating children and young people with this condition places challenges on health care, education and training programs.

What Do People Do?

Many events are organized on World Autism Awareness Day. These include:

• Panel discussions with autism experts, politicians and non-governmental organization (NGO) representatives.
• Informational events for parents of children with autism.
• Conferences and workshops for professionals working with people with autism.
• Artistic workshops for people with autism.
• Television and radio shows, as well as newspaper features, about people with autism and their lives.
• The launch of educational materials for parents and teachers.
• Exhibitions of art work by artists with autism.
• The display of posters and banners to increase public awareness of autism.

Special clinics are also organized for families dealing with autism to obtain consultations with pediatricians, educational psychologists and social workers.

History

On November 1, 2007, the United Nations (UN) called for one day each year to be designated as World Autism Day. On December 18, 2007, the UN General Assembly designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day. It was first observed in 2008.