Proud day as Longford Senator introduces Autism Action and Oversight Bill 2024

A Longford Oireachtas member has described introduction of the Autism Action and Oversight Bill 2024 in the Seanad as a 'very proud day'.

Senator Micheál Carrigy, former Chairperson of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Autism and chairperson of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Autism, brought forward the legislation this week.

The Fine Gael representative said the Autism Action and Oversight Bill aims to give legal effect to an Autism Innovation Strategy, ensuring a long-term, sustainable framework for supporting individuals with autism and their families.

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“This is a very proud day. The Autism Action and Oversight Bill is about giving every child, regardless of their neurodiversity, the same opportunities in life — the chance to reach their full potential," he said. “This bill provides the foundation for an Autism Innovation Strategy that will make a real difference in the lives of children and adults with autism for years to come.”

Senator Carrigy said as a former Chairperson of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Autism and chairperson of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Autism, he has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and champion the needs of the autism community in Ireland.

The introduction of this bill marks a major milestone in those efforts.

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“I look forward to the next government, which I plan to be a part of, implementing this legislation and putting the strategy on a firm legal basis,” Senator Carrigy said. “This is about more than legislation — it’s about giving people with autism the support and opportunities they deserve.”

Senator Carrigy also called on all parties to include the implementation of this bill in their General Election manifestos.