Committee on Health, Labour and Social Welfare held thematic meeting devoted to World Autism Awareness Day, which was attended, apart from Committee members, by the following: Mr Mensud Grbović, Assistant Minister of Health, Mr Mensud Grbović, Director of school “1 June”, Mr Marko Minić, psychologists in the Institute for Children’s Diseases and Ms Zorica Barac, neuropsychiatrist.

At the meeting, the participants emphasised that autism was not a disease but a disorder diagnosed at the age of two to three. This disorder requires both a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach. The education of staff working with people with autism is very important, and such trainings require certain funds.

Members of the Committee on Health, Labour and Social Welfare as well as persons attending the meeting took part in detailed discussion on autism, afterwards a conclusion was reached stating that early diagnosis,treatment and inclusion in educational process were of key importance for children with autism. In that manner, we may help them to develop their social and communication skills, become more independent and have better and more productive life.

Conclusions, proposals and suggestions from Committee meeting shall be submitted to the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Work and Social Welfare with the aim of undertaking measures and activities for the purpose of helping persons with autism and their parents. The conclusions will be adopted at the following meeting of the Committee on Heath, Labour and Social Welfare.

In recognition of World Autism Awareness Day, members and professional service of the Committee on Health, Labour and Social Welfare attended the celebration of World Autism Awareness Day at Trg Republike in Podgorica.