It's hoped Waterford City could be declared Autism Friendly this year.
Today marks World Autism Awareness Day and Patricia Holton of family support group, Déise Circle, says it would be great to get that status.
The issue was discussed by Patricia and Adam Harris from 'As I Am' on Déise Today earlier.
Patricia said it would mean increased support and awareness for autistic people:
"It would bring so much more awareness to everybody, from guards to business people.
"You know, the skills are there. They just need to be recognised and given a chance.
"I know Adam, going forward, is hoping that when they (autistic adults) go for interviews that there will be an option for them to bring somebody with you to the interview.
"That would be a major development for us as well, because that's what they struggle with."
She also highlighted the progress that still needs to be made.
While great strides have been made in the early years sector, more needs to be done for older teenagers and for adults with autism.
Patricia says supports are needed for them once they leave the education system:
"I see the major improvements that have been made for early intervention. It's been fantastic, and that's why we are hoping to do the same thing for adults and teenagers on the autism spectrum.
"Once the education stops, it's very difficult.
"We are actually the lowest country in Europe to employ people on the autism spectrum - which is a frightening statistic, as parents.
"We are just hoping to spread awareness."
