If re-elected, I want bring policy that can effect real and lasting change.
Autism-Friendly Society
Working to autism-proof all public and private services
I will advocate for the enactment of an Autism Empowerment Act to provide for a National Autism Strategy and give autistic people a voice in matters relevant to their lives
I will continue to champion inclusive education particularly advocating for more autism class and special school placements, improved quality and regulation and better supports for autistic students in all schools.
The world can be a difficult place to navigate for an autistic person. Modern societies, especially its infrastructure, are so often designed without the input of people with a different set of needs.
Even a task as simple as taking a bus can be difficult for someone on the autism spectrum; where noises, odours and the lack of personal space can be overwhelming.
If I’m re-elected to the Seanad, I will be working to progress my initiative for an autism-friendly society so public and private services are developed and delivered while cognisant of the needs of autistic citizens.
Following discussions with AsIAm, Ireland’s national autism charity, on the difficulties of navigating Ireland’s criminal justice system, we have begun an exciting partnership with Mountjoy Prison on awareness-raising and training for prison staff when engaging with autistic prisoners and their family members.
This work is at an advanced stage and once developed, we hope to build a transferable model for other public services, such as the Courts and our public transport networks.
If we want to build more inclusive communities and public spaces, we need our everyday services to be proofed for use by citizens living with disabilities – visible and invisible. This means more accessible public services and spaces on the journey towards an meaningfully inclusive society for empowered autistic citizens. This is work I will continue to progress if I am re-elected.
NO COMMENTS
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.