PROVINCE PROCLAIMS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS

The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed December 3 as International Day of Disabled Persons to coincide with the United Nations day that raises public awareness and understanding of issues affecting people with disabilities.

"Each year on this day we are reminded of the importance that full citizenship means for people with disabilities," Minister responsible for Disability Issues Buckley Belanger said. "However, people with disabilities live with this reminder every day. It is important that we continue to work together to ensure they are included in the social and economic life of our province."

The provincial government will also release the Multilateral Framework for Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities: Saskatchewan Report 2005-06 that describes provincial programs, services and expenditures that were cost shared by the federal government and supported the employment of people with disabilities. The report shows that persons with disabilities in Saskatchewan have slightly better employment rates than the Canadian average.

The government has invested over $37 million to improve the lives of those with disabilities since the release of the Disability Action Plan in 2001 – including an additional $12.5 million this year. These investments provide opportunities for people with disabilities to participate fully in Saskatchewan communities and contribute to the province's economy.

Multilateral Framework for Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities: Saskatchewan Report 2005-06 will be available online at www.cr.gov.sk.ca after December 3.

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For More Information, Contact:

Diane Shannon Community Resources Regina Phone: 306-787-8689 Email: dshannon@cr.gov.sk.ca