Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on World Autism Awareness Day:

“Whether we recognize it in our daily lives or not, Canadians on the autism spectrum make our country an incomparably richer place. Families and communities from coast to coast to coast benefit from the unique perspectives and talents that neurodivergent Canadians bring.

“Common Sense Conservatives believe that at the core part of our nation’s promise is the principle that anyone, from any circumstance, should have the opportunity to contribute and thrive in our common home. 

“While we have no doubt made progress in recent decades, more can and must be done to ensure that our colleagues, neighbours and family members with autism have the opportunities, support and acceptance that they need.

“A Canada in which the contributions of its neurodivergent citizens are encouraged and appreciated is a truly worthy goal – and one that reflects our nation’s high ideals.

“On behalf of all my colleagues, I send my warmest greetings on this World Autism Awareness Day.”