Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
WHEREAS NWT health and social services covers the cost of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) assessment for children and not adults;
AND WHEREAS many cases of FASD in children are going undiagnosed because of the lack of awareness and stigma associated with the disorder;
AND WHEREAS undiagnosed children are growing up and struggling with physical, intellectual and behavioural difficulties in adulthood;
AND WHEREAS the government is committed to working with residents in an effort to help them live healthy and productive lives;
AND WHEREAS adults who may have undiagnosed FASD are ineligible to receive support and programming available only to those who have been diagnosed with FASD:
AND WHEREAS improper diagnosis often leads to inappropriate care, increased risk of secondary disabilities, and missed opportunities to connect individuals affected by FASD with the programs and services that will provide the support needed to promote optimal functioning and provide a better quality of life;
AND WHEREAS accurate diagnosis can speed up the development of effective prevention practices and contribute to more accurate estimates of incidence and prevalence;
AND WHEREAS with proper assessment and care, many people with FASD can lead happy and productive lives, with the right supports, approaches and services;
NOW THEREFORE I MOVE, seconded by the honourable Member for Tu Nedhe, that the Government of the Northwest Territories establish assessment services for adults who may have FASD;
AND FURTHER, that a multidisciplinary team based on the examples of the Territorial Assessment Team or the Child Development Team at Stanton Territorial Hospital be developed to provide these assessment and diagnostic services in the NWT;
AND FURTHERMORE, that programs and supports for individuals and families living with FASD be
enhanced and be available to NWT residents who need these services;
AND FURTHERMORE, that the government provide a response to this motion within 120 days.