Government recognizes International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Julie Bettney, Minister of Health and Community Services and Gerald Smith, Minister of Human Resources and Employment today recognized the important contributions of persons with disabilities within our communities.

December 3 has been designated International Day of Persons with Disabilities as proclaimed by the United Nations. It is a day to celebrate the achievements of individuals, communities and governments as we work together to eliminate barriers faced by persons who have disabilities. It is also a time to reflect on the personal strengths and abilities of persons who have disabilities.

"Persons with disabilities in Newfoundland and Labrador have demonstrated time and time again that a disability has nothing to do with an individual�s ability to succeed,"said Minister Bettney. "It is important that we not only recognize these achievements, but continue moving forward in addressing physical and social barriers that persons with disabilities often face."

"As the Minister of Human Resources and Employment, I am well aware of the important role persons with disabilities play in our labour market as well as in society in general,"said Minister Smith. "I am also aware of the need for understanding and acceptance in the work place."

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to the full inclusion of all citizens. Most recently, the Department of Human Resources and Employment (HRE) has partnered with the Coalition of Persons With Disabilities (COD) to present the award winning presentation of The Realities of Disability to all front-line staff of HRE.

Currently, the Department of Health and Community Services is spending more than $24 million annually to provide home support to adults with disabilities. This amount has increased by more than 40 per cent since 1997. In 2001, 1,780 adults will receive this service.

"We have made great strides in creating supports and initiatives that promote inclusion within the labour market, especially for persons with disabilities," said Minister Smith, who is also responsible for the Strategic Social Plan. "However, we also recognize that society still has a long way to go in terms of equality and inclusion. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador remains committed to working with our community partners and advocacy groups to ensure persons with disabilities continue to have equal access to employment and social opportunities."

Media contact: Paul Power, Communications, (709) 729-4062.

2001 12 03                          3:00 p.m.