New website to benefit children with Down Syndrome

Hundreds of families will benefit from a new website launched by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern today.

Down Syndrome Dublin is the largest branch of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) with more than 700 families - around 40% of its members are children.

The new site will provide members with valuable information and a forum to communicate more effectively with each other and the branch.

It will be up and running ahead of World Down Syndrome Day, which will be held on March 21.

The date was chosen to signify the uniqueness of Down Syndrome in the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome.

Down Syndrome Dublin's chairwoman Caroline Casey said the organisation offers support and information locally to families and provide a range of services, courses and social outlets for people with Down Syndrome in the Dublin area.

"Our aim is to reduce the sense of isolation that parents and families experience in their daily lives," she said.

"It is increasingly important that people with Down Syndrome are included in all aspects of their community.

"Communication is the key to this, and the availability of speech therapy is critical at all stages. Most members report difficulty with accessing adequate provision of this service.

"People with Down Syndrome have many different levels of achievement and we want to help them strive to reach their potential."