The Irish Society for Autism was formed with the goal of creating awareness of autism and convincing the authorities that early diagnosis and specialised education would greatly enhance the quality of life for people with Autism. In the last 45 years the Irish Society for Autism has been providing information on Autism for thousands of people, parents, families, educators, students and health care workers. It has also been successful in creating residential services for Adults with Autism in Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Meath, Westmeath and Wexford and creating the European Charter of Rights for People with Autism.
The Irish Society for Autism is a founder member of Autism Europe and the World Autism Organisation. The Executive Director, Pat Matthews, was the first President of the World Autism Organisation.
The Organisation:
The headquarters of the Irish Society for Autism are situated at Unity Building, 16/17 Lower O’Connell Street, Dublin, 1. All of its activities are co-ordinated from this office which include:
A Drop in Centre: provides access to our library, books, publications and videos where parents, professionals and students can come and access information on Autism.
Activity Management: All of the Society’s fundraising activities which include Annual Gala Ball, Art Auctions and other appeals including the “Roseweek Campaign” are organised and co-ordinated there.
Seminars and Meetings: The ISA holds a monthly Board meeting in O’Connell Street. The ISA is very active in assisting and supporting Autism Europe (A.E.) and the World Autism Organisation. The ISA runs seminars and information days.
The Executive Director of the Irish Society for Autism, Pat Matthews, was a founding member and the first President of the World Autism Organisation. He handed over his position, which he held for over 7 years, to the new President at World Congress in Cape Town November 2006. He is now the immediate past President of the World Autism Organisation and a member of the Council of Administration.
Public Relations: The ISA has become very active politically and has enlisted the support of many well-known politicians to pursue its aims. We always try to maximise on any events that might highlight Autism or present Autism to the public in a positive way.
Support Groups: The Irish Society for Autism runs support groups in Kerry, Wexford, Donegal and Kilkenny. Please contact our office for further information.
Finance: The Society depends entirely on its income from fundraising to run its office and support activities.
The capital development of Dunfirth Farm, Moygrehan House, Cluain Farm and Sarshill House was largely the result of dedicated parents and friends using initiative, imagination and hard work to fund the projects.
The housing projects were supported by the Department of the Environment who have generously contributed to our projects. However, the ongoing revenue to enable us to pay our way is still very scarce. The rates paid by Health Service Executive do not cover the costs and significant deficits have accumulated.
The Years Ahead: As we become more knowledgeable about Autism and adults with Autism, there is a greater realisation that although people with Autism can acquire, improve and develop their skills they will continue to require intensive continuity of training to enable them to reach their true potential.
We know that given the right training and by creating meaningful work opportunities in a suitable environment our young people with Autism can lead greatly enriched lives.
