OTTAWA, ONTARIO, Dec 02, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) —
The Government of Canada is helping to remove obstacles and enable people with disabilities to contribute to and participate in their communities. The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, reaffirmed this commitment today, on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, December 3.
“In recognizing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I am pleased to join Canadians in celebrating the tremendous contributions that people with disabilities make to our country,” said Minister Finley. “This day serves as an important reminder that all Canadians should have the opportunity to enjoy full participation in all aspects of society.”
On March 11, 2010, the Government of Canada ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, demonstrating the Government’s ongoing commitment to building an inclusive society for all.
Since December 2008, the Registered Disability Savings Plan has helped people with disabilities and their families save for the future.
Each year, the Government makes significant investments in programs, such as the Opportunities Fund and Labour Market Agreements for People with Disabilities, to help people with disabilities access education and employment. These initiatives are in line with the Government’s top priorities of improving the job market and economic recovery.
For more information on programs and services for people with disabilities, visit www.hrsdc.gc.ca/disability .
This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
BACKGROUNDER
International Day of Persons with DisabilitiesIn 1992, the United Nations (UN) proclaimed that December 3 of each year would be International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Every year, the UN encourages governmental, non-governmental and private-sector organizations to celebrate the occasion by organizing activities that focus attention on disability issues and on the contributions of persons with disabilities to the societies in which they live.
The theme of the 2011 International Day of Persons with Disabilities is “Together for a better world for all: Including persons with disabilities in development.” For more information, visit the UN website.
Registered Disability Savings Plan
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a savings plan that helps people with disabilities and their families save for the future. The RDSP, Canada Disability Savings Grant and Canada Disability Savings Bond were introduced in Budget 2007 and became available to Canadians with disabilities in December 2008.
To help people save, the Government of Canada provides a matching grant of up to $3,500 annually and a bond of up to $1,000 annually for low- and modest-income Canadians. No contributions are necessary to receive the bond.
For more information on the RDSP, visit rdsp.com
__
SOURCE: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Contacts:
Alyson Queen
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559