McAdam launches the Dublin City Autism Action Plan 2026–2028

As Lord Mayor of Dublin, I launched the Dublin City Autism Action Plan 2026–2028, this morning, at the Mansion House, marking a significant milestone in the city’s work to build a more inclusive, accessible and welcoming capital for Autistic people. Developed in partnership with AsIAm and shaped through extensive engagement with Autistic individuals and their families, the plan sets out a clear ambition for Dublin to become the world’s first autism‑friendly capital city.

The Action Plan outlines a coordinated programme aimed at strengthening community, improving public understanding and ensuring that Autistic people can fully participate in the life of the city. It highlights the need to increase awareness of the often‑invisible barriers Autistic people face and to challenge the stigma and misinformation that persist. A central focus is the creation of a city environment that is easier to navigate and more considerate of sensory needs, with commitments to clearer signage, improved wayfinding and the development of public spaces that are predictable, calm and accessible.

The plan also places strong emphasis on celebrating Dublin’s Autistic community and recognising the strengths, talents and contributions of Autistic people. It sets out actions to ensure that Dublin is a place where Autistic people feel valued—whether they are visiting, studying, working or living in the city. Strengthening pathways to meaningful employment is another key priority, with a commitment to supporting employers to build more inclusive workplaces and create opportunities that Autistic people can access and thrive in.

Speaking at the launch, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, said, “Today marks an important moment for our city as we launch Dublin’s Autism Action Plan and set out a bold ambition to make our capital the first autism friendly capital city in the world. I am deeply proud that Dublin is choosing to lead, not only in Ireland but internationally, by showing that a truly modern city is one that sees every person, values every voice, and works every day to ensure that everyone can belong.”

The Lord Mayor emphasised that the plan is rooted in partnership and in listening directly to Autistic people. “This plan is about more than policy. It is about the kind of city we want Dublin to be. By working in close partnership with AsIAm, and by listening directly to Autistic people and their families, we are helping to shape a capital that is more understanding, more accessible, and more compassionate.”

Reflecting on the broader vision for the city, the Lord Mayor added. “My mayoral theme is Celebrating Dublin, and that must mean celebrating all of our people. If we stay true to this vision, Dublin will not only become the first autism friendly capital city in the world, it will become something even greater: a city that leads with empathy, acts with purpose, and inspires others to build communities where every person has the chance to thrive.”

Adam Harris, CEO and founder of AsIAm stated, “This Action Plan represents a meaningful step forward in recognising that inclusion must be designed into the fabric of a city, not added as an afterthought. We are proud to have partnered with Dublin City Council, and with the Autistic community, to help shape a vision where accessibility, understanding and acceptance are part of everyday life. If delivered with ambition, this plan has the potential not only to transform Dublin, but to set a new global standard for what it means to be an autism friendly city—one where Autistic people are supported to participate fully and to thrive.”

The Dublin City Autism Action Plan 2026–2028 represents a commitment to practical, everyday improvements that will make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and help build a city where autistic people feel safe, supported and at home.