THE SDLP’s Mark H Durkan has welcomed the passage of the long-overdue Final Stage of the Autism Bill in the Stormont Assembly.
The new law will strengthen current legislation and assist in the creation of a more inclusive society and make a meaningful difference to the lives of people with autism and their families.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I am delighted, that following many years of work from myself and others, this vital and highly anticipated piece of work has finally passed its Final Stage.
“I hope it will provide a springboard towards the creation of a more equal, supported and fulfilling environment for individuals with autism, their families and their carers.
“The crux of this legislation is the provision of early intervention services which is in dire need of transformation.
“Thousands of children and their families are currently awaiting an ASD diagnosis, left without support, struggling in a class of their peers without the assistance they desperately need.
“I hope this bill is backed with the necessary funding to help address these lengthy waiting lists and provide a robust framework of support.
“As a society we have made leaps in improving support and developing our understanding of the needs of people with autism – yet we are nowhere near the finish line.
“The envisaged future of an enlightened, inclusive society depends on the creation of communities where people with autism, their families and carers can feel understood – whether that’s in relation to their education, access to supported housing or finding suitable employment.
“The Autism Amendment Bill isn’t a panacea but it is a start.
“I want to pay tribute to all the organisations: Autism NI, National Autistic Society, Circle of Support and many others who have worked hard to make these improvements in autism services a reality.
“The passage of this Bill is good news – a step in the right direction and I look forward to its implementation.”
