The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind is calling on people to support its Assistance Dog Programme - which is currently closed to new applications - to mark World Autism Day.
Last year, the Irish Guide Dogs was forced to close its waiting list for its Assistance Dog Programme for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, for a second time, due to a massive over-demand for its service.
The group says more than 100 children with ASD are currently on the national charityÂ’s Assistance Dog waiting list, which is approximately a two-to-three year wait.
Over 260 families currently have an assistance dog in Ireland.
Paula McGovern, Communications Manager with the Irish Guide Dogs, says they are working hard to match dogs with families - currently on their waiting list.
