‘I can’t wait any longer for the adults in the room to fix it’ — Cara (13) starts autism rights protest at Simon Harris’s office

The 13-year-old from Ardfinnan, Co Tipperary has vowed to return to the most famous doorstep every week, alternating between Simon Harris’ department and the front of Leinster House, until the next general election.

“I’m not a dosser, and I believe I’ve earned the right to be heard through sheer old-fashioned hard work. I will not go away until real progress and commitments are made,” Cara said.

Though she isn’t neurodiverse herself, Cara’s two younger brothers, Neil (11) and John (7) are autistic and have significant intellectual disabilities.

And the teenager has witnessed first-hand the struggles her parents, Mark and Noelle, have had in accessing services.

“My campaign is for the Government to pay for all autism assessments and services for those children that are waiting years to access these basic entitlements. I also want the Government to ensure that the Assessment Of Needs (AON) legislation is fully complied with within a stated timeframe,” said Cara.

“I’m…