Statement made on 30 March 2010 by Senator Jim Munson
Hon. Jim Munson:
Honourable senators, my question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate. April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day, and I listened closely to the recent budget speech, hoping to hear that there would be increased support for families dealing with autism spectrum disorders, known as ASD. The word "autism" was not mentioned in the budget.
There is a conservative estimate across our country that autism affects one in 150 families, yet Canada does not have a national strategy to understand this disorder. Canada does not have a strategy to diagnose it, prevent it or help families and people with ASD participate fully in our society.
We all know that autism is a costly condition that is bankrupting Canadian families. We are aware that autism imposes a huge burden on society. Canada's response, in my view, is not up to the challenge and we need to take action. We need a national strategy. When will we get one?
Please click here to read the full text of the Senator's question