Deputy Danny Healy-Rae has said that he has a long history of supporting children with autism and their families.
Deputy Healy-Rae had been criticised for comments he made in the Dail during a debate on the lack of special education places.
Sinn Féin, the Labour Party, and autism groups had criticised comments he made wondering about the increasing incidence of autism and asking whether a lack of vitamins could be part of the cause.
Speaking to Radio Kerry this morning Deputy Healy-Rae said that his words were taken out of context, that he has at all times stood by families and children with autism going back many years.
He said even before he was in the Dail - when he was a councillor - he has campaigned for them and raised issues on their behalf.
Deputy Healy-Rae said that these individuals and families should get all the supports the state can provide and he will continue to campaign for this.
