Mr. Speaker the Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador has brought to my attention that this is Autism Awareness Month.
Autism is a developmental disorder which occurs in approximately 15 out of every 10,000 births. It is estimated that there are over 500 people affected with this disorder in Newfoundland alone. It is four times more common in boys than it is in girls, with symptoms appearing during the first three years of life. Autism causes severe communication difficulties. Social interaction and behavioural problems are also evident.
It was first diagnosed in 1943 and is one of the most complex disabilities to understand. In fact, 50 years of research has failed to find an exact cause or cure.
I commend the Autism Society for its work on raising public awareness of this disorder and I am pleased to bring this to the attention of the House.