Madam - Mary Hanafin has enjoyed a relatively positive media profile during her time as Minister for Education. However her treatment of people with autism is nothing short of disgraceful.
Her department has consistently refused to listen to the voices of parents who have autistic children. There is much evidence from international experts, but more importantly from parents of the success of the ABA approach to dealing with autistic children. However, the Minister has pursued the policy of eclectic intervention much to the dismay of parents.
As a supporter of this current Government, her failure to deal with an issue that is vital to the future of so many young children saddens me.
Her term of office should be judged on these failures. - Yours, etc,
COLM FAHEY, Woodpark, Ballinteer, Dublin 16