On 9th September, International FASD Awareness Day, FASD Ireland proudly co-hosted the launch of a landmark research report conducted by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), the first of its kind to provide an evidence based picture of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in Ireland.

This day, marked globally on the 9th day of the 9th month to symbolise the nine months of pregnancy, brought together advocates, researchers, families, and policymakers in a united call for recognition, action, and support for those living with FASD.

A Turning Point for Ireland

The RCSI research marks a pivotal moment in Irish public health and disability policy. It reveals the true scale and impact of FASD, the most prevalent yet least diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition in Ireland, affecting learning, behaviour, and opportunity across the lifespan.

Speaking at the event, Senator Anne Rabbitte, recipient of the FASD Champion 2025 Award, delivered a powerful address, stating: “FASD remains largely invisible in national health and education policies, with no dedicated data collection, diagnostic pathways or specialised services currently in place.”

She highlighted the systemic neglect faced by families: “Professionals across healthcare, education and social services are unequipped to recognise or manage the complexities of the condition.”

The consequences of this neglect are severe: “Individuals with FASD are significantly overrepresented in statistics on homelessness, addiction, mental health crisis and youth suicide, yet their needs remain overlooked.”

Urgent Action Required

Senator Rabbitte described the RCSI report as a “brilliantly important” piece of research, calling for:

• FASD-specific training across healthcare, education, and social care sectors

• The development of clear diagnostic and support frameworks

• The establishment of dedicated services for assessment, treatment, and lifelong support

“Without these measures, Ireland will continue to fail a population living with a preventable but profoundly misunderstood disability.” She issued a strong call to leadership: “There is a responsibility within government and across sectors to understand. Silence is condonance.”

And reaffirmed her commitment: “I will continue to champion this… to deliver that awareness campaign and provide direct support for those living with FASD.”

Prevention, Awareness, and Inclusion

The event also focused on prevention, with new research highlighting the role of both parents in avoiding prenatal alcohol exposure. Senator Rabbitte stressed the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, and the need to educate healthcare professionals to ensure better outcomes.

Buildings across Ireland—including Leinster House, and FASD Ireland’s headquarters—were lit up in red, symbolising solidarity and awareness.

Voices of Experience

The evening concluded with a heartfelt moment as Jacob Casson-Rennie, a young adult living with FASD and a student at the University of Galway, presented the FASD Champion Award to Senator Rabbitte. His presence and story served as a powerful reminder of the living experience behind the statistics.

“All people, especially children, deserve to thrive,” Senator Rabbitte said. “Today is a milestone, a day where research, advocacy and policy come together to deliver the kinds of supports families have long been calling for.”

She closed by thanking all those involved, including the RCSI team, Professor Jolanta Burke, Angela Harper, Professor Faharna Shariff, and the FASD Ireland team:

“Our work is already making a difference, and I have no doubt it will shape a better future for so many families.”

Download your copy of the research