NLIS 6
September 26, 2005
(Human Resources, Labour and Employment)
Minister launches new
partnership with
Independent Living Resource Centre to help people get on-line
Joan Burke, Minister of Human
Resources, Labour and Employment, today announced $79,000 in funding
for the Adaptive Technology Program (ATP) with the Independent
Living Resource Centre. ATP will provide better computer access
throughout the province for people with disabilities.
Adaptive technology allows a wide range of people, including
seniors, people with visual impairments and people with learning
disabilities, to use computers at public internet access sites. With
Adaptive Technology, computers adjust to individual user needs by
enlarging typefaces, verbalizing texts or reading Web pages aloud.
�The Adaptive Technology Program is a real step forward in
connecting persons with disabilities to the information highway,�
said Minister Burke. �Persons with disabilities often face a number
of unique challenges when using computer technology and the
internet. This program will help residents across the province, who
may not have access to computer technology, benefit from
opportunities for innovative learning, skills development, and
improved access to government service.�
ATP will be offered through the Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC).
The ILRC is a community-based, consumer-driven organization that
offers services to people who have any kind of disability.
�Not only does ATP open up the world of technology to many of our
consumers, equally important, it will increase independence and
self-esteem for those who have been denied this service in the
past,� said Barry Galloway, executive director of the Independent
Living Resource Centre. �ATP has the potential to decrease the
failure and dropout rate for youth with disabilities, boost career
development, and essentially, transform lives.�
�The Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and the
Independent Living Resource Centre have always worked closely to
ensure those with disabilities are given every opportunity to excel
in all aspects of their lives,� said Minister Burke. �The Adaptive
Technology Program is a great resource which reflects this
government�s goal to achieve integration, equity, empowerment and
inclusion for all within our labour market and communities.�
Media contact: Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-4062,
689-2624
2005 09 26
2:30 p.m. |
