Calls have been made for Portlaoise to follow the lead of Clonakilty in Cork and become an official autism-friendly town.
The West Cork town was the first in the country to be designated autism-friendly, something which required more than 200 businesses, schools and services to be accredited.
And speaking at a recent Municipal District meeting in Laois County Council, Cllr Marie Tuohy called for Portlaoise to do the same.
“The statistic is that one in every 65 is on the autism spectrum which equates to a significant number in any community and the specific needs should be taken into consideration in relation to shopping, socialising and sport,” said Cllr Tuohy.
“Clonakilty has led the way in becoming the first autism-friendly town in Ireland. I see Aldi have a designated time on Tuesday evening in all their stores across the country as an autism-friendly shopping time.
“AsIAm, Ireland’s National Austism Charity would be helpful in advising in this area and small considerations that are easily achieved make a difference. Some are as simple as dimming lights, reducing noise from tills, scanners and tannoy systems and a basic understanding by staff of this.
“Participating businesses should also be dog friendly and the GAA and other sports groups may also be willing to participate in this initiative but we do need to find a way to pull all interested parties together on this. Hopefully the Council could act as a conduit in this regard.
Laois County Council responded by saying that their Business Support Unit had liaised with Laois Chamber of Commerce, who are supportive of the concept.
“They would like to see this project led by an autism organisation who have necessary expertise and knowledge in this area.
“They are happy to become a supporter of same and will contribute to the accreditation process where required.”
SEE ALSO – Check out more stories here from the Portlaoise Municipal District
