Wynne Liberals Allowing Children to Languish on Autism Therapy Waitlists

QUEEN’S PARK – Today in the Legislature, Leader of the Official Opposition Patrick Brown asked Premier Wynne why her Liberal Government continues to let children sit on waitlists for autism treatment programs.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that Ontario’s wait lists for children’s autism support services have grown to over 16,000 spaces, and some families are waiting years for services.

“The Government’s go-to talking point is their $190 million for autism funding each year, and I can applaud that investment.  However, it is clear that the government’s funding is not enough,” said Leader Patrick Brown.

The Liberal Government’s waste and financial mismanagement has resulted in key services being crowded out, making investment virtually impossible.  Over the past two years, 1,000 fewer children have received ABA funding.

“The Autism Parent Resource Kit it is a nice tool for parents, but when I looked through the kit I noticed something very important was missing,” continued Leader Patrick Brown.  “What was missing was enough funding for the 16,000 children on waitlists who struggle each and every day.”

Brown added, “This government is known for having conversations, panels, sit downs, committees and chit-chats.  But what they’re not known for is taking action. Will this Government commit to taking all these children all off the waitlists and getting them the treatment they deserve?”