Multi-annual funding needed for iCARE and autism supports – Pringle TD

Donegal TD Thomas Pringle has called on the Government to provide multi-annual funding for iCARE and autism supports in the county.

The call comes a day after World Autism Awareness Day and a Dáil motion calling for greater supports for children and adults with autism in Ireland.

Deputy Pringle highlighted the impact that cuts are having on community-led services such as iCARE in Inishowen in his call for more regular funding assurances.

Speaking in the Dáil, he said: “Community-led autism supports such as iCARE provide much-needed educational, social and respite services for children with autism and for those 18 years and over as there’s nothing once they leave school.

“However, the reality is that funding is constantly running out with only a fraction being provided by the HSE. I spoke with the Chairperson of iCARE Angela Tourish who poignantly said that closing is always around the corner.”

Local election candidate Sinead Stewart has reiterated Pringle’s point saying “no service should be in a position where they are constantly under threat of closure. Children with autism deserve better and need better if they are to reach their full potential.

“The HSE needs to acknowledge the fact that community-led services are value for money in that they provide quality care in the local area where children and adults can thrive within their own communities. They also work alongside local schools to provide special classes for children with autism,” Stewart said.

Deputy Pringle further noted that “the Government by not providing secure and targeted funding is only creating more impediments to children and adults with autism. If we are serious about removing the barriers people with autism in society then we need to get serious about funding.

“For that reason myself and Sinead Stewart called on the Government to commit to multi-annual funding so that services in Donegal and elsewhere can develop a community-led approach using iCARE is an example of how that model can deliver to children with autism across Donegal,” concluded Pringle.