If this bill becomes law we’ll get a ‘menu’ of services for ASD people

Our mixed bag of State and charitable services has been criticised but it is typical, writes Victoria White

I AM tired of being told by people who want to prove their virtuous political credentials that autistic people in Ireland have no services. I can’t help itemising what the taxpayers of Ireland have done for my son Tom, who has just turned 16.

From the date of his birth until this month he was getting nearly €8,000 every year in direct supports, between child benefit at the (stupidly enhanced) rate for twins, domiciliary care allowance, and respite care grant.