The Cabinet, at its weekly meeting on Sunday, 24 Teves 5773, unanimously approved the appointment of an inter-ministerial team on an arrangement for treating individuals with autism in Israel.

The team is being appointed against the background of a significant increase in the number of children being diagnosed annually with autism and out of the desire to meet their needs. The team will formulate recommendations on defining and meeting the main needs of individuals with autism – and their families – in Israel, including budgeting, ways to increase Government efficiency in the field, and will also consider the need for legislation on the issue.

A representative from the Social Affairs and Social Services Ministry will chair the team, which will also be composed of members from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Education Ministry, the Health Ministry, the Finance Ministry and the National Insurance Institute. The team will submit its recommendations to Prime Minister’s Office Director-General Harel Locker.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said, “My heart goes out to individuals with autism and their families, and the Government is committed to finding appropriate answers for their needs. Appointing this team is a very welcome and important step, and a humane step, that is designed to assist the unique needs of this population.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)