Assault on autistic child

Reading the front-page story about a brutal attack on a young teenager with autism has left a sad and anxious feeling in my stomach.

As a special-needs resource teacher and a parent, this twisted assault has flooded my head with questions.

What has brought about this new low? Is it lack of parenting? Is it over-exposure to social media? Are these culprits mentally ill?

Only through understanding of why this disgusting act occurred will we be able to equip young adults with skills to live and function in society without being a danger to those around them.

In addition, we need to portray what seems like a long-lost notion: actions have consequences.

Debby Hayes

Ferryman’s Cottage

East Ferry

Midleton

Co. Cork