To ask the Minister of Health what additional support he can provide to the Child and Adolescent Autism Service to ensure (i) waiting lists are reduced; and (ii) children and young people can receive a more timely diagnosis.

My Department is aware of the extensive waiting lists for autism assessment and the challenges that this presents to those people who need support.

As you will be aware the Health Budget is under considerable pressure. In order to support HSC Trusts in the current fiscal challenges officials in my department are currently reviewing the paediatric ASD pathway. Officials meet with Trusts on a monthly basis as part of this review and to inform the development of assessment pathways that are consistent and equally accessible across the region. The outcome of the review will be to provide the most effective care pathway to meet the needs of children and young people in a timely manner.