Eighteen months have passed since I was given hope that the PEI Government was going to create an Autism Strategy for it’s residents. In this May 2008 post, I questioned the reality of an internal autism strategy. To date, the PEI Government has not shared this internal strategy with parents or the Autism Society of PEI.
April 3, 2008
Hi April,
Thanks for your e-mail. I had the chance to take a quick look at your
video. You did an excellent job. Your message was presented in a very
professional, thought-provoking and engaging manner.I have forwarded your e-mail to both Minister Currie, Department of
Social Services and Seniors; and Minister Greenan, Department ofEducation, for information. Both departments are working
collaboratively to update and further develop an Autism Strategy for PEI.I appreciate your taking the time to share your personal experiences
and comments regarding care and support, respect, and education for
special needs children.Sincerely,
Robert Ghiz
Premier
Parents’ patience is wearing thin, frustrations and stress is increasing, the prevalence of autism has risen to 1 in 91 children. When will Government recognize the crisis at hand? When will our children be important enough? Mr. Premier when are families going to be supported with a real strategy? What is a reasonable amount of time to wait for this strategy?
The reality is that the PEI Government began a closed consultation process in the fall of 2008. This statement was made by one Department of Education staff “The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, with the Departments of Health and Social Services & Seniors and the Autism Society have been working with HRA to review existing policies and programs, and provide recommendations for action. It may be a period of time before recommendations come from this process, but we can be optimistic the process is taking place.”
This review has been completed for some time, and the report of recommendations has been forwarded to Government, but all members of the committee have not even seen the final report. There was no public consultation process for parents and staff to share their voice.
It is very disappointing to be writing this post a year and a half later with no changes to improve supports for families affected by autism on Prince Edward Island.
