| NEPEAN-CARLETON POLITICIANS TO CALL FOR GREATER SUPPORTS FOR FAMILIES WITH AUTISM |
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| Tuesday, 30 January 2007 19:00 |
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MPP Lisa MacLeod, Barrhaven Councillor Jan Harder and Autism Advocate Laurel Gibbons to Urge Province for Better Services BARRHAVEN, January 31, 2007 - Local politicians Lisa MacLeod, MPP and Councillor Jan Harder are teaming up with Ottawa-based Autism Advocate Laurel Gibbons for better supports for children and their families affected by autism. Later today Harder and Gibbons will present a vision for a south/west resource centre that would service the fastest growing community in Ottawa with the highest incidences of autism. The presentation will take place in Belleville at the Province of Ontario’s Pre-Budget Consultations with the Finance and Economic Affairs Committee of the Legislature. The recommendations include the establishment of a facility in the west end of Ottawa offering intervention, social, and recreational services for persons with autism and related Autism Spectrum Disorders, in consultation with local school boards, health care providers, and the Ottawa Children’s Treatment Centre. MPP MacLeod, who will be sitting on the committee said, “The present Liberal Government is simply not doing enough for children with autism and their parents, considering Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been reaching epidemic proportions in the last twenty years. I hope the Liberals take this proposal seriously and will work with community partners to ensure kids in my community are receiving the treatment and supports they deserve.” “This is the fastest growing community in the city with the highest incidence of autism but there is no treatment or respite facility nearby,” said Councillor Harder. “Families are stretched to their financial limits trying to help their kids. I will do whatever I can to find city-owned land or a facility suitable for an autism support centre.” Gibbons concluded, “My goal is to ensure that all those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder have the opportunity to access the programs and services they need to lead their lives to their full potential.” -30- For more information please contact: Office of Lisa MacLeod, MPP Stephen Gilman, Executive Assistant Phone: 613-823-2116 Cell: 613-297-2051 Office of Councillor Jan Harder Bev McRae, Communications Director Phone: 613-580-2424 ext. 26665 |