AN Islander who has autism and suffers from anxiety has become the first person to be sworn in at the Royal Court alongside a dog.
Julie Daly-Wallman turned up with her faithful companion, Buttons, for the hearing to be officially appointed as a St Helier roads inspector.
And after initially being told that dogs were not allowed inside the court, she was given special permission to have her pet standing by her as she took the oath in front of the judge and Jurats.
“Buttons calms me when I get very anxious,” she said.
Describing the moment she was sworn in by Deputy Bailiff Robert MacRae, she said: “I was called and then Buttons came right alongside me. I put my right hand up; she obviously can’t put her hand up.
“She goes everywhere with me. When we’re checking the roads, she walks alongside me, so she should be sworn in.”
As April is Autism Awareness Month, Buttons’ inclusion “couldn’t have come at a better time”, Ms Daly-Wallman said.
Although Buttons – a mix of Jack Russell, fox terrier and Parson Russell terrier – is around 14 or 15 years old, the new inspector said the she was still “full of life”.
While she was waiting to find out whether she would be allowed to bring Buttons into the court, Ms Daly-Wallman said she felt glad that she had made the request.
“I said to myself: ‘I’m making a stand for autism. Whatever happens, whatever the outcome when the usher comes back, I’m glad I asked’.”
As a roads inspector, Ms Daly-Wallman will be responsible for making sure that her parish’s roads are safe and in good condition – and, she said, Buttons would be walking with her at all times.
Ms Daly-Wallman described her diagnosis with autism, which came when she was 48 year old, as “a game changer”.
“It was huge,” she added. “I have always been a little bit different. I like my own company and I’m quite determined. If I focus on one thing, that’s it.
“It helped me understand why I don’t see things the same way that people do.”
She added: “We are a little different but we are very capable if you give us a chance.
“It’s about all the other hidden people that have been diagnosed. They are forgotten and their talents are being left behind.
“I think we’re missing out on that huge pool of talent.”
