Ministerial Statement – Minister Dempster Recognizes International Day of Persons with Disabilities

  • Children, Seniors and Social Development

December 3, 2018

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities:


Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize December 3 as International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day is celebrated internationally to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

This morning, with the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities, I signed a proclamation to commemorate this day and promote awareness of the value of diversity in our society. I also participated in a ceremony at Government House to celebrate the inclusion of persons with disabilities here and around the world.

This year’s theme – Empowering Persons with Disabilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equity – also focuses on the United Nations pledge to “leave no one behind.”

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to continue our government’s work to promote inclusiveness, equality and diversity throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

We will continue working with advocates and stakeholders to remove barriers, creating environments that promote greater participation in our communities, and equitable access to employment opportunities and public services. In fact, work is well underway with our partners on the development of new inclusion-based accessibility legislation.

Diversity and inclusion are achieved when we uphold the value and dignity of all individuals. As Robert M. Hensel, a well-known advocate for the community of persons with disabilities said, “Know me for my abilities, not my disability.”

Mr. Speaker, I ask my Honourable colleagues and all citizens of this province to join me in recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities and striving to make Newfoundland and Labrador a more inclusive province for all people.

Thank you.

2018 12 03 1:50 pm