Carla Lockhart said:

“My Party colleague Pam Cameron MLA has done a huge amount of work alongside Autism NI in raising the issue of autism training for teachers. It is vital that this training is invested in by Government.

However, we must not forget the vital importance of preschool provision. Training for those in preschool and nursery environments is vital, not only to ensure that kids are supported in that environment, but also to identify autism in children at the youngest age. This is essential to allow for assessment and support measures to be in place for going to primary school.

We have so much need in our society to ensure children have the support networks in place to support them through their education pathway. The sooner those needs are identified, the earlier that framework of support can be provided.

I will continue to champion this issue in Parliament and ensure the needs of those with autism are heard loud and clear by Government.”