The CCD will ‘light up blue’ for Autism Awareness as part of International Conference
DUBLIN – 20 March, 2013 – The Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) is to host the Irish Society for Autism’s International Autism Conference in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day, and the Society’s 50th Anniversary, on the 3rd and 4th April 2013.
Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that can affect people differently, some individuals are able to live independently, while others require specialist support. The central theme of the conference will be ‘The Next Generation’ focusing on enhanced legislation, increased awareness, autism specific education, early diagnosis and intervention.
Speaking in Dublin about the impetus for organising an International Autism Conference, Irish Society for Autism’s Executive Director, Dr. Matthews said “We wanted to take this opportunity at our 50th Anniversary to make a renewed effort to raise awareness and make an impact. I hope this conference serves to create a new discourse about autism in Ireland and internationally, and contributes to the development of a culture of dignity, care and respect for individuals whose lives are directly affected by the condition.”
The conference is supported by the World Autism Organisation and will bring together some of the world’s top professionals who, over a two day period, will deliver exciting plenary sessions, social exchanges and 16 stimulating workshops. This is a very special opportunity to meet and mingle with people with Autism, parents, professionals and friends in an ambiance of warmth and conviviality.
Contributors to the conference include internationally renowned Professor of Animal Sciences Dr. Temple Grandin, who was recently portrayed by Claire Danes in an Emmy awards winning HBO film. Dr. Grandin was diagnosed with severe autism as a child and was listed in Time Magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2010.
This is the largest Autism conference ever held in Ireland. The Irish Society for Autism is calling all families, professionals and people with autism, wherever they are, to come and celebrate this great occasion and be part of creating a better future for all. So far, delegates from 16 countries will be attending the two day conference. In mark of this special occasion The CCD’s signature coloured atrium will be lit up blue.
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About The CCD
The Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD), Ireland’s first purpose-built international conference centre, is situated in Spencer Dock on the banks of the River Liffey in the heart of Dublin’s city centre. The award-winning venue is configured to accommodate conferences from 8 to 8,000 participants in 22 purpose-built meeting rooms and six spacious foyer levels. Its iconic design includes a 2,000-seat auditorium, 4,500 square metres of exhibition space and banqueting facilities for up to 3,000 guests. The CCD offers the latest technology throughout its flexible and delegate-friendly venue, with an experienced and passionate team. The CCD is committed to sustainability and best practices, and has secured ISO Certification for quality (ISO 9001) and environmental (ISO 14001) management systems, as well as the British Security Standard (BS7499). The CCD has won a total of 22 industry awards since opening, including being named as one of the top four Convention Centres in the World at the AIPC Apex Awards in 2012 and winning Gold for ‘Access Excellence’ in 2012, as well as ‘Best Overseas Conference Centre’ in 2012 and 2013 at the UK M&IT Awards. For more information, please visit www.theccd.ie
About the Irish Society for Autism
The Irish Society for Autism was the second autism organisation in the world when it established in 1963, and it is a direct service provider with residential services around Ireland. It was formed with the goal of creating awareness of Autism and convincing authorities that early diagnosis and specialised education would greatly enhance the quality of life for people with Autism.
Press Contact
Elaine Phillips
Head of Marketing & Communications
The Convention Centre Dublin
Phone: +353 1 8184610
Email: elaine.phillips@theccd.ie