December 10, 1999
(Human Resources and Employment)

The following statement was issued today by Julie Bettney, Minister of Human Resources and Employment. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

It gives me great pleasure to stand in the House of Assembly to recognize a very important event in the history of human rights.

Today, December 10, marks 51 years since the first Signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations. In 1948 the United Nations unanimously adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a common standard for all people of all nations.

The Human Rights Code, which is law in Newfoundland and Labrador, is integral to our present and future accomplishments as a government, a province and as a people. This code protects individuals from discrimination and harassment and promotes equality of opportunity. It applies to provincial government departments and agencies, and private businesses. The code ensures all individuals are not a victim of discrimination because of their race, religion, religious creed, sex, marital status, physical disability, mental disability, political opinion, colour, or ethnic, national or social origin, or sexual

orientation.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador strongly believes in the Human Rights Code and approaches all government initiatives on the code's standards.

The Department of Human Resources and Employment is currently redesigning its income support and employment programs. The main purpose of this redesign is to provide easier access to our services and programs for the entire population of Newfoundland and Labrador. These numerous programs and their specific details ensure all clients have equal opportunity to reach their social and economic potential.

In an effort to address potential discrimination in the labour force many of the department's programs are specifically designed for individuals who may face unique challenges or stereotyping in our employment market. These programs teach clients and employers that all individuals have a valuable contribution to make to our labour force and should always be given the opportunity to do so.

Some of these client specific initiatives include programs for individuals who have experienced challenges due to disability, gender, or lack of financial resources. I am proud to say the department's programs and services reflect the diversity of our clients. Ultimately, thanks to our valuable partnerships with local communities, work done in the department promotes a diverse labour market based on equality.

I would like everyone to join me today in recognizing the 51st Anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I believe that the true success of our province rests in the acknowledgement that every individual is a valuable human resource. It is this recognition and acceptance of diversity that will ensure the next century is filled with opportunities for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. Opportunities that are realized through collaborative effort and mutual respect.

1999 12 10 9:35 p.m.