December 3, 2006 Is International Day of Persons with Disabilities

In the Legislature today, Minister Gillan acknowledged that Sunday, December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

“International Day of Persons with Disabilities exists to remind us of a simple truth - that persons with disabilities are equal members of our community,” said Honorable Chester Gillan, Minister of Social Services and Seniors and Minister Responsible for Persons with Disabilities. “In Prince Edward Island, 14 per cent of our population or approximately 19,000 people have a disability. We need to continue to welcome, include and accept people actively into our communities.”

The Minister noted that the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Disability Issues is available to Government as a consumer voice and to provide advice on issues affecting individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the Department of Social Services and Seniors continues to work with community organizations to plan for the future.

“Government and other partners are concerned with our aging population, our aging parents and care givers,” added Minister Gillan. I look forward to continuing to work with the Ministerial Advisory Committee and the community to provide meaningful supports to persons with disabilities.