Longford senator pushing for St Patrick's Day parades to support needs of autistic children
Longford Fine Gael Senator Micheal Carrigy is urging local authority chiefs to follow last year's St Patrick's Day parades protocol by reserving a quiet area specifically dedicated to children with autism.
In his role as Chairperson of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Autism, Senator Carrigy has contacted councils to ask them once again this year to consider quiet/silent sections for the annual celebrations.
"As the father of a young boy with autism, I know only too well how parades can often be inhospitable places because of the noise, lights, and crowds of people," he said.
"The needs of the autistic community and others must be taken on board by creating a quiet/silent and suitable section at each parade.
"It is important that measures are put in place to ensure the parades are welcoming and safe places for all to enjoy.
"Last year the organisers of my local parade in Longford town last year agreed that a section of the St Patrick’s event would have no music or sirens so that families could attend in the knowledge that they would be able to watch what is a great occasion in a comfortable and safe area.
"I am now asking that all parade organisers countrywide would take this idea on board and have a quiet street or section and make it known that all families can enjoy the festivities.’