PROVINCE PROCLAIMS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed December 3rd as International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which coincides with the United Nations' designation in 1992 of International Day of Disabled Persons to raise public awareness and understanding of issues affecting people with disabilities.

"Each year at this time we reflect on the progress we have made and on the work that still remains for a society where every man, woman and child is included as an equal, active and participating member of his or her community," Minister responsible for Disability Issues Joanne Crofford said. "As government, our efforts are guided by the recommendations in the Disability Action Plan prepared by the Saskatchewan Council on Disability Issues so that we can reach this desired society."

This year's theme, 'Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Action in Development', coincides with the 20th Anniversary of Section 15 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which articulates equality for all Canadian citizens and parallels the Government of Saskatchewan's vision of an inclusive society.

Today, the provincial government also releases 'Multilateral Framework for Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities: Saskatchewan Report 2004-05', a report that describes programs, services and expenditures for improving the employment situation of people with disabilities during the last year. The report is available at www.dcre.gov.sk.ca.

In October, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers responsible for Social Services reaffirmed their commitment to full inclusion of Canadians with disabilities and made a commitment to making people with disabilities a key priority next year. Together, they will pursue joint work for improving access to and funding for disability income supports for people with disabilities and for building public awareness and stakeholder and government support to address the challenges facing people with disabilities.

Since the release of the Disability Action Plan in June 2001, the Saskatchewan government has invested over $25 million – including $8 million this year – in new funding to support people with disabilities.

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For More Information, Contact:

Herman Hulshof Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-0916