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The following statement was issued today by John Ottenheimer, Minister of Health and Community Services. It was also read in the House of Assembly on his behalf by Joan Burke , Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women: Recognizing World AIDS Day In recognition of World Aids
Day, I rise today to acknowledge the seriousness of one of the greatest
medical and social challenges of our time. On World Aids Day, we are united
to support the individuals, families and communities affected by this
disease. We also renew our commitment to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, to
develop more effective treatments and to find a cure.
Over the last two decades, AIDS
has claimed the lives of more than 20 million people worldwide. This year�s
campaign theme is "Have You Heard Me Today? Women, Girls, HIV and
AIDS,". It recognizes that behind these staggering numbers are the
names and faces of increasingly more young girls and women, especially in
third-world countries.
Here at home, many of you will recall the spirit and talent of Tommy Sexton, whose courage and openness in battling this disease, marked a pivotal moment in AIDS awareness in Newfoundland and Labrador. Throughout his illness, Tommy continued to strive to eliminate the stigma and discrimination surrounding the disease which is still a major obstacle to effective HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Today the Sexton family continue the work their son began. Each year, the family assists in organizing the Tommy Sexton Benefit fund-raiser, ensuring that his legacy continues to contribute to the future of our province in a very meaningful way. This year, the benefit will be held on Friday, December 3, at the Bella Vista. This is a disease that knows no
limits and respects no boundaries. In our province over the last 20 years,
230 people have tested positive with HIV and 91 individuals have reportedly
contracted full-blown AIDS. Families and friends have had to say good-bye to
the 79 people who have lost their life with this disease. While the number
of positive HIV tests have declined in recent years, public awareness and
education are still important in reducing the number of people exposed to
this disease.
To support our struggle against HIV/AIDS, our government is actively engaged in preventative programming in support of the treatment of HIV/AIDS. A joint committee established in 2002 by the Department of Health and Community Services and the AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to oversee a Newfoundland and Labrador AIDS Strategy and Plan of Action. In collaboration with community partners, we work to deliver HIV and AIDS services throughout the province. Our government assists the AIDS Committee in funding the operation of a 1-800 line to assist and support those diagnosed with AIDS with counselling and education on treatment options, among other issues. Today, I encourage all members
of the House to wear a symbolic red ribbon and voice a shared commitment to
promote the acceptance of persons living with HIV/AIDS; to turn the tide
against the spread of this disease, bringing hope and healing to those who
are suffering, and finding a cure.
2004 12 01 2:15 p.m. |
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