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Pringle calls for multi-annual funding for iCARE and autism supports in Donegal
- Updated: 3rd April 2019
Thomas Pringle TD – April 3rd, 2019
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Independent TD for Donegal and local election candidate for Inishowen Sinead Stewart have this week called on the Government to provide multi-annual funding for iCARE and autism supports in Donegal.
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.
Speaking on the Dáil motion Deputy Pringle spoke at length on the impact cuts and lack of funding is having on community-led services such as iCARE in Inishowen.
“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 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.
Sinead Stewart continues saying “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.
Deputy Pringle further notes 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” concludes Pringle.
ENDS
