GOVERNMENT VOTES DOWN PC MOTION TO RESTORE FUNDING FOR IBI THERAPY

(Queen’s Park) – Today, the Ontario Progressive Conservative Caucus motion calling on the government to restore funding for Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI) therapy for children over the age of 5 was voted down by the Liberal government.

During Question Period, 9 members of the PC Caucus urged the government to reverse their decision and allow children over the age of 5 to access IBI therapy. Jones highlighted the fact that Autism Ontario, the Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth, the Ontario Association of Behavioural Analysis, the chair of the government’s expert panel, the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, ETFO, OSSTF, the OFL, CUPE, OPSEU, and municipalities have united to oppose the government’s decision.

“How many more experts have to come forward before the Minister understands removing IBI therapy from kids over 5 will impact children’s ability to communicate with their family, succeed in school and thrive in our communities,” Jones said.

“Families from across Ontario came to the Legislature today to see if the government would finally do the right thing and reverse their decision,” Jones said.

“Unfortunately the government and the Minister ignored experts and parents and chose not to stand up and support our motion to help improve the lives of thousands of Ontarians, who desperately need this critical therapy,” Jones said.

“The PC Caucus and I will continue to fight for all children with Autism to ensure they receive the supports they need to reach their fullest potential,” Jones said.

To read more about what Jones is doing in the Legislature please visit: www.sylviajonesmpp.ca.

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For more information, contact:
Christopher Dacunha
416-325-1898
sylvia.jonesla@pc.ola.org