Cross Border Meeting Tackles Autism

Two senior politicians from either side of the Irish border have joined forces to tackle a major health concern.

Stormont Minister Michelle Gildernew and Margaret Conlon TD have addressed the Joint North-South Conference for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in Armagh.

Addressing the conference entitled 'Enabling Communication', Minister Gildernew, on behalf of Education Minister Caitríona Ruane, said: "This conference is an excellent example of joint north/south co-operation.

"I know that both the Department of Education and the Department of Education and Science work closely in continuing to strive to deliver a quality education for all children with autistic spectrum disorders.

"Another area of co-operation is the Middletown Centre for Autism, which has a pioneering role to play in future services as well as complementing those already being delivered.

"From an early age, children interact and communicate with the world around them. As parents and family members, we experience joy at our children saying their first words and responding to us.

"We watch as they develop and start to make sense of the world around them, chatting and playing with friends.

"Without proper support however life for a child with an autistic spectrum disorder can be very different and one of silence and isolation.

"It is through early identification and intervention that the risk of long-term underachievement can be reduced. Conferences such as these enable education professionals to share best practice and practical examples, making it possible for them to reach out to the children and young people in their care," she said.

The Department is currently inviting responses to 'Every School a Good School – Review of Special Educational Needs and Inclusion', to assist in best determining educational provision for some of our most vulnerable children.

"I would encourage all those with interest in SEN to respond to the consultation which remains open until the 30 November," said the Minister.

(BMcC/GK)