Planned autism centre isn't what parents say they want
Vancouver Sun
August 2, 2008
Editorial by: Patti Bacchus Coordinator, Vancouver Parents for Successful Inclusion Re: Autism centre one step closer, Aug. 1

Let me get this straight: Premier Gordon Campbell, who recently signed an order denying support to adults with IQs over 70, asked a Vancouver "power couple," ….to come up with plan for a building to house autism services?

The "notional" commitment of $20 million in public funding Victoria is putting up for the privately developed project would only pay for partial costs of a building -- nothing for operating, staffing, training, managing, maintaining or assisting families.

Families of children with autism have indicated that the project won't meet their overwhelming needs. The Moms on the Move survey shows that more than 90 per cent of 340-plus respondents said it was more important to deliver services in local communities.

Why isn't the ministry of children and family development, which has responsibility for autism policy, doing the consultation itself? Why weren't its staff present to answer questions about government's role and intentions during the ….invitation-only consultations….? How could others submit competing proposals when no one else was informed that $20 million was available?

Families struggling to care for children with autism spectrum disorders desperately need increased services and support,… but why is the premier bypassing appropriate channels to get this money spent?