It is with great pleasure that I join all Canadian families affected by autism in recognizing World Autism Awareness Day, April 2nd, as declared by the United Nations General Assembly.

Autism is a complex disorder that affects millions worldwide in myriad ways. It is important that we not only develop awareness of advances in early intervention, but also celebrate the talents and skills of people living with autism.

Recent progress on autism is evident in many fields, from research and care to education and policy. However, we still require enhanced knowledge of the condition and greater understanding of the most effective treatments and interventions. This is why the Government of Canada continues to work with partners and stakeholders and invest in activities which support a stronger autism evidence base to enhance our understanding of this condition.

Government of Canada initiatives continue to improve autism knowledge and awareness. The Public Health Agency of Canada is currently working with experts in health surveillance to identify what could be done in Canada in this area. In addition, the Government of Canada has supported autism knowledge through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, which has spent and committed over $26 million on autism-related research since 2000.

Please join me in marking this very important day.