Organisations supporting children who require speech and language therapy say voluntary groups in Clare are doing the state's job.
Nearly 4,000 youngsters in the midwest require the support – however there are just over 18 experts employed by the HSE here.
As a result specialists across Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary have a case load 203 children – with a recommended amount on average of 50 children per speech and language expert.
Across the country one in four affected families said their children hadn't seen a therapist in a year.
Gearoid Mannion of Ennis Voices Against Autism has two sons with Autism, he's calling on the Minister for health to tackle the issue head on.