Released on December 3, 2003
The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed December 3rd as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.The United Nations first designated the Day in 1992 to raise public awareness and understanding of issues that affect people with disabilities. This year's theme, as proclaimed by the United Nations, is "A Voice of Our Own".
"Our government has a vision of a society where every citizen has a right to be included as an equal, active and participating member of the community to the best of their ability," Minister Responsible for Disability Issues Joanne Crofford said.
"We are committed to realizing this vision for all Saskatchewan people as our government works on implementing the recommendations of the Saskatchewan Council on Disability Issues, Disability Action Plan," Crofford added. "I encourage persons with disabilities across this province to speak out and share their experiences and aspirations with Saskatchewan citizens as we all recognize and celebrate their contributions to our social, economic and cultural life."
Actions the province has taken this year in support of the Disability Action Plan include:
• $1.85 million in new funding to improve employment supports;
monthly disability allowances were increased by $10 per month;
• $150,000 to provide supplementary health benefits to persons with disabilities for one year for those who leave social assistance for employment;
• accessibility of government buildings is being improved through $1 million in capital project spending; and
• Over the last three years, 77 or almost half of the provincial fleet of Paratransit vehicles have been replaced through funding provided by the Centenary Fund.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Herman Hulshof Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306)787-0916 |