Opening Doors Program funding increased to $2.6 Million

Treasury Board President, Joan Marie Aylward, announced today that an additional $600,000 will be been added to the budget for the Opening Doors Program, over the next three years. This expansion will increase the number of permanent, full-time employment opportunities for people with disabilities in the public sector of our province. It will increase the total budget for the program to $2.6 million.

"Just as we recognize the difficulties faced by the youth of our province in securing that first job, this government also recognizes the challenges to employment faced by persons with disabilities," said Minister Aylward. "This government has continued to support the employment of persons with disabilities in the provincial public service through the Opening Doors Program with an annual salary budget of approximately $2 million."

The Opening Doors Program is unique to this province through a partnership between government and NAPE and creates job opportunities for people with disabilities. The program budget will increase by $225,000 in the first year; $300,000 in year two and $75,000 in year three.

Media Contact: Glenn Bruce, Communications, (709) 729-6793.

2001 03 22                4:50 p.m.