Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I want to talk about the benefits of early intervention with people with autism.
The Autism Society of Canada is leading a partnership with organizations, including the federal government, to develop a national autism strategy. The purpose is to address research, funding issues, raise awareness for autism, and certainly lay out best practices for those people who care for their children and family members with autism. The strategy, I believe, can eventually lead to strengthened support for those individuals and families dealing with autism in the NWT.
As many people know, autism covers a spectrum of disorders: social impairment, communication difficulties and/or restrictive, repetitive and stereotypical behaviour. As everyone knows, early diagnosis is critical. Not just important, Mr. Speaker, absolutely fundamental. Because, correspondingly, early intervention allows for assistance and support of the children who we wish to lead into good lives as they grow into adults.
There is no cure for autism yet, although interventions and medications can treat some of the symptoms. With good intervention and, certainly, support, many of the autistic children growing into adults are able to be full contributors in their independent lives as adults, and that’s certainly a goal of many parents.
We must keep in mind every autistic child is different and needs different supports as they deem necessary. A child suffering from the symptoms of autism will likely need constant care, and lest we forget the impacts it has on the whole family, that would be mom, dad and, of course, the brothers and sisters. Homes may require renovations or additional safety features to prevent accidents, and should we never forget about the much needed respite services many of these parents need to ensure that their health is top of the list as well.
Many good services have been provided to help families in the city and in our North to help care for our children and families with autism. Keep in mind that it’s imperative that we do not neglect the parents again through the respite service process.
As always, more can be done, and I expect more should be done, for helping those families and individuals suffering with autism, because they need to be a full partner in the solution as we go forward.
Mr. Speaker, I will continue to be an ardent supporter of families who are dealing with the autism challenge, and I think this government needs to stand up and clearly show them their support. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. Hawkins. The honourable Member for Sahtu, Mr. Yakeleya.
