PROVINCE PROCLAIMS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed December 3rd as International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This proclamation 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.

"This year's theme, 'nothing about us without us', is a powerful statement reflecting the principles of participation and equality for people with disabilities," Minister responsible for Disability Issues Joanne Crofford said. "It parallels our government's vision of a society where every citizen has a right to be included as an equal, active and participating member of his or her community."

"As we continue our path toward this vision, our efforts remain focused on implementing the recommendations in the Disability Action Plan, prepared by the Saskatchewan Council on Disability Issues," Crofford said. "Let's recognize and celebrate the inclusion and participation of people with disabilities and contributions they make to the social, economic and cultural life of our great province."

In addition, two reports regarding persons with disabilities were released today.

The provincial government released the Multilateral Framework for Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities: Saskatchewan Baseline Report 2004-05. This report describes programs and services that help improve the employment situation of people with disabilities. It is available at www.dcre.gov.sk.ca.

The second report, Adults and Children with Disabilities in Canada: An Analysis of Data on Needs and Gaps, is a federal/provincial/territorial governments' report on access to supports for people with disabilities. This report is available at www.socialunion.gc.ca.

Since the release of the Disability Action Plan in June 2001, the Saskatchewan government has invested over $17 million in new funding to support people with disabilities.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Miller Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-0531