Debate contribution: Autism Assessments: Waiting Times

Debate contribution by Mr Mike Nesbitt on 29 June 2026.

MLA: Mr Mike Nesbitt
Party at the time: Ulster Unionist Party
Date: 29 June 2026
Type: Debate contribution (made as a minister)
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Autism Assessments: Waiting Times
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5644855

Text

I thank the Member. We provide a range of services. Long waiting times were one of the prominent themes raised during the consultation on the emotional health and well-being framework. It takes action to address that. A key change is the move away from multiple single diagnostic pathways, which often create delays, duplication and inconsistency, towards a unified, needs-led neurodevelopmental pathway. I want to see support. While waiting is a standard expectation, I want to ensure that children receive early help and early advice and brief interventions even before they reach the specialist team. Strengthening early intervention in schools, youth services and community settings means that many needs can be met sooner.

112 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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