Canada’s Conservatives Release Statement: National Autism Strategy

On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, Mike
Lake candidate for Edmonton – Wetaskiwin released the following statement:

“There is an estimated 1 in 66 Canadians aged 5 to 17 who
are diagnosed with autism. Across Canada, families work tirelessly to support
their children and care for their loved ones. Evidence-based therapies and
services can cost up to $80,000 per year for children with high needs. The
financial costs added to missed work, drives to appointments, and late nights
all add up.

“At present, across the country, provinces and territories
struggle to meet the growing needs of the autism community. There are
jurisdictional inequalities in service deliveries that force families to move
or seek services away from home.

“Canada’s Conservatives believe that the federal
government can play an important role in developing a strategy to assist those
living with autism and their families. As Prime Minister, Andrew Scheer will
work with autism stakeholders to develop a National Autism Strategy.

“An initial investment of $50 million over five years
would be invested to develop a comprehensive strategy in consultation with
autistic individuals, autism organizations, provincial, territorial, and
municipal governments, and indigenous communities. The National Autism Strategy
will be person-centred, include first-person perspectives, will be culturally
appropriate, and will reflect the needs of Canada’s northern, rural, and remote
communities.

“This is an important first step to support Canadians’
access to meaningful support and resources to live to their full potential, no
matter where they live.

“A new Conservative government will work together with
autism organizations across Canada, and the greater autism community to address
the needs of the autism community so they can live their best life possible.”

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