Derry MLA expresses concern in delay of appointment of an Autism Reviewer 

Foyle SDLP MLA and member of the All Party Group on Autism, Mark H Durkan has expressed serious concern that the continued absence of an Executive has delayed the delivery of the Autism Strategy appointment of an Independent Autism Reviewer.

The role is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, overseeing the implementation of the Strategy and ensuring consistency across autism services.

The Foyle MLA said: “Autism legislation hasn’t been fully updated since 2011 leaving hundreds of people living with autism and their families without vital support. The failure to appoint an Independent Reviewer is the latest in a series of unforgivable casualties of the impasse at Stormont.  

“This role is an important one, created to improve accountability and ensure the Autism Strategy is implemented properly and effectively meets the needs of people with autism.

“Perhaps most importantly it would deliver consistent support and improve early diagnosis. The unforgivable waits so many individuals and families have been subjected to has spiralled out of control, that crisis has been compounded by the pandemic and now the absence of a functioning government is preventing the implementation of this vital legislative framework.

“It’s a disgrace that these long overdue reforms, including the creation of early intervention services, are further delayed.

“The sooner an ASD diagnosis can be given, the sooner support services can be accessed, at present there are over 4500 children awaiting assessment.

“The implementation of the Autism Strategy provided a glimmer of hope for those families but now they're left with further uncertainty and without critical support. No child should be neglected on colossal waiting lists, fighting for support to which they are entitled.

“An independent Autism reviewer in conjunction with the Autism Strategy has the potential to transform lives. It’s reprehensible that the position cannot be filled - once again, DUP intransigence continues to punish the most vulnerable.”