Statement by Minister Qualtrough on International Day of Persons with Disabilities
GATINEAU, QC, Dec. 3, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, today issued the following statement:
"Canada joins the world in celebrating the 24th United Nations' International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
While this is a day to celebrate the vast contributions of people with disabilities, it also reminds us that many barriers to accessibility and inclusion still exist in our society.
In Canada, we have made great strides in fostering equality for people with disabilities, but there is still much work to do.
Ensuring greater accessibility and opportunities for Canadians with disabilities in their communities—including in schools, workplaces, sport facilities and other spaces—remains a priority for our government.
That is why, over the past months, I have been meeting with Canadians and experts across the country in a ground-breaking consultation process to plan accessibility legislation. The consultations will continue until February 2017. I invite all Canadians to visit Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada to be part of the conversation.
Earlier this week, our government announced that it has also begun a consultation process on Canada's possible accession to the United Nations Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This is another significant step forward in improving the rights of Canadians with disabilities. December 13, 2016, marks the 10th anniversary of the UN's adoption of the Convention.
Please join me in celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities as we embrace a culture that supports an active and engaged community in a truly accessible Canada."
Associated Links
Video: Minister Qualtrough Statement on International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Consultation on Accessibility Legislation
News Release: Canada makes further commitment to support rights of persons with disabilities
Twitter: @AccessibleGC / Facebook: Accessible Canada
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Ashley Michnowski 12/3/2016 |
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