Mr. Speaker, I rise today, April 13, during autism awareness and acceptance month, a month dedicated to highlighting the need for greater inclusion, understanding and support for people on the autism spectrum.
In Canada, 2% or roughly one in 50 children and youth is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The prevalence of autism among adults is estimated to be around the same, at 1.8%, but no matter what the age, living with autism spectrum disorder can bring about significant life challenges. That is why I want to highlight the incredible work of the physicians, researchers and organizations that have made so much progress in helping to better identify and diagnose autism spectrum disorder, as well as teachers, employers and organizations like Autism Canada and the Canadian autism network, which, in their own way, work tirelessly to support Canadians living with autism.
Canada is a better, stronger and fairer place because of their hard work. On behalf of all members of my community in Vaudreuil and all members of this House, I thank them.