Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
December 2, 2014
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development:
December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to note that tomorrow, December 3, is the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Mr. Speaker, an inclusive society that welcomes diversity is essential to building a strong and dynamic province – and we all have a role to play to ensure equal opportunities and choices for all of our citizens. This morning, I met with the Provincial Advisory Council for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, where we discussed issues of common interest and how we can move forward.
Tomorrow I will attend a business leadership breakfast, sponsored by the Network of Disability Organizations, where the discussion will focus on the fact that people with disabilities make up a largely untapped labour pool in our province. I know several members opposite will be attending – and I’m glad to see that – because I believe this is an issue that transcends politics.
The keynote speaker will be Randy Lewis, vice-president of Walgreens in the United States. He will be talking about how that company found that a diverse workforce is not only profitable and efficient, but it is an environment preferred by all employees. His company has made it work – and we believe that as a society, we must also make it work.
Mr. Speaker, in 2012, the Provincial Government released Access. Inclusion. Equality. A Strategy for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities. The strategy is designed to bring about change in policies, services, programs and attitudes. Since that time, we have taken action on several initiatives contained within the strategy, including providing grants to community-based organizations for projects such as the installation of ramps, supporting initiatives that promote inclusive work environments, and providing financial assistance to retrofit private vehicles with modifications such as the installation of lifts and hand controls.
Mr. Speaker, as the Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, I look forward to working with members of the community of persons with disabilities and the Provincial Advisory Council, to achieve the shared goal of a truly inclusive society. I invite all members of this House to support us in that goal, and to join with me in recognizing the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
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2014 12 02 1:50 p.m.