Sir, – I watched RTÉ's Prime Time programme on November 1st and was horrified by the situation facing the mother, Mary and her adult autistic son, Sam.
Minister of State for Disabilities Anne Rabbitte acknowledged that their situation is unacceptable and that their story is replicated throughout the country. She also stated that there are recruitment and retention problems in the HSE’s disability sector.
May I suggest that this problem would not be as acute if staff were offered better training and mentoring in order to provide them with the skill set necessary for this challenging career.
I would also question the policy of outsourcing disability services to private agencies as they may not always have the resources, specific expertise or necessary oversight to provide a meaningful service.
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It is unacceptable that parents/guardians are left as sole carers for their children with autism. These people are on duty 24/7 leaving them physically and emotionally drained. They feel unsupported by the State. Individuals with autism deserve a well-structured service with clear goals and objectives in order to enhance their quality of life.
Ms Rabbitte’s response to Mary and Sam’s situation was disappointing. Surely as Minister responsible for disability she should be asking if the HSE’s disability sector is fit for purpose rather than giving the lame excuse of problems with recruitment and retention.
Both the Minister and HSE have a duty and responsibility to ensure all the children of the nation are treated equally.
– Yours, etc,
BERNADETTE HOWLEY,
Corballa,
Co Sligo.