INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PROCLAIMED IN SASKATCHEWAN

December 3, 2012 has been proclaimed as International Day of Persons with Disabilities by the Government of Saskatchewan. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been observed around the world every year since 1981. This year's theme, as chosen by the United Nations, is Removing Barriers to Create an Inclusive and Accessible Society for All.

"The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to declare today as International Day of Persons with Disabilities," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "This is an opportunity to promote increased awareness of disability issues in our province, and to celebrate the important contributions that persons with disabilities make to the quality of life we enjoy in Saskatchewan."

The theme of the day is especially relevant in Saskatchewan this year, as the province has recently committed to developing a comprehensive disability strategy by working together with representatives of the disability community and support workers.

The strategy will focus on the goals identified in the Plan for Growth and the 2012 Speech from the Throne, including:

• Reducing barriers to accessible housing;
• Making transportation more accessible;
• Increasing employment and education opportunities;
• Supporting community inclusion; and
• Supporting caregivers.

The United Nations estimates that 15 per cent of the world's population, or more than one billion people, live with some form of disability.

"We are proud to work with our many partners in the disability community to ensure that persons with disabilities are integrated fully into every aspect of our society here in Saskatchewan," Draude said. "Working together, we will ensure Saskatchewan is the best place to live in Canada for people with disabilities."

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For more information, contact:

Pete Paczko
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: pete.paczko@gov.sk.ca