The federal government is facing criticism from autism support groups, frustrated parents and senators after rebuffing their calls to implement a national strategy to cope with the disorder.

WRITTEN RESPONSE

The Conservative government’s position comes in its written response to a recent Senate committee report calling for a national approach to the disorder affecting approximately six in 1,000 children.

While it highlights several funding initiatives involving research and transfer payments to other governments, it suggests more study is needed to form a consensus on the spectrum of disorders under the autism rubric.

“Accordingly, governments do not yet know enough about ASD and its treatments to implement effective and well-informed strategies that would lead to meaningful outcomes,” the 12-page response states.

Titled “Pay Now or Pay Later: Autism Families in Crisis,” the Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology called for a national strategy to address the drastically unequal public funding and treatment provided from province to province.

Sen. Jim Munson complimented the government on what it’s doing, but said it needs take on more responsibility.

“The status quo is not good enough, and that’s what this report is,” said Munson. “Whatever it takes to alleviate this suffering sidesteps any jurisdictional concerns.”

Various autism support organizations held a teleconference this week to discuss the government’s latest remarks on the issue. The groups were not pleased.

‘VERY DISCOURAGED’

“People are very discouraged they (the government) seem to have dodged the issue,” said Marg Whelan, executive director of the Geneva Centre.

“There’s definitely some disappointment,” said Laurie Mawlam, executive director of Autism Canada. “We are of the view that this is a health crisis and we need more targeted programming and a comprehensive national autism strategy for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.”

Autism Society Canada president Christine Dade said it was unfortunate the government response to the committee came out during Autism Awareness Month.

“We had hoped the government would pick it up (the report) and wave the flag,” said Dade. “We were quite disappointed on it.”