Accessibility: New Government Announces $223 million

BURNABY, BRITISH COLUMBIA, February 16, 2007- The Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, today announced an investment of $223 million to help Canadians with disabilities develop skills and secure meaningful, long-term employment.

At the same time today, the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of International Cooperation and Minister for la Francophonie and Official Languages, on behalf of Minister Solberg, made the same announcement in Quebec.

Through the Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities, the federal government works with provinces to put in place programs to assist people with disabilities to overcome barriers and become active in the labour force. Today's announcement extends those agreements to March 31, 2008.

"Canada's New Government is working with the provinces and territories to support programs and services that make a real difference in the lives of Canadians with disabilities," said Minister Solberg. "Developing marketable skills and finding a good job is an important part of building a brighter future. Everyone should have the opportunity to participate in and contribute to Canada's vibrant and growing economy."

"There are many skilled and talented people with disabilities who want the opportunity to pursue their employment goals," said the Honourable Claude Richmond, Minister of Employment and Income Assistance for British Columbia. "This agreement strengthens the supports and services we have in place to help them achieve their goals."

Minister Solberg made this announcement at the Neil Squire Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Canadians with physical disabilities through the use of technology, knowledge and passion to help them remove obstacles and barriers, so that they can live independent lives and become active members of society.

"This funding has played a critical role in our ability to help individuals with disabilities become active members of the labour force," said Dr. Gary Birch, Executive Director of the Neil Squire Society.

Today's announcement reflects the goals of Advantage Canada, the Government of Canada's economic plan, which was released by the Minister of Finance on November 23, 2006. Advantage Canada places priority on ensuring that "as many Canadians as possible have the opportunity to participate in the work force" and identifies people with disabilities as one of the groups facing unique challenges to labour market participation.

As described in Advantage Canada, over the coming months, the Government of Canada will work with provincial and territorial governments to improve opportunities for people with disabilities and all Canadians to participate in the labour market.

This news release is available in alternative formats upon request. Click here to get you to the right government location.

For further information (media only):

Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development Canada
819.994.5559

Lesley Harmer
Director of Communications
Office of Minister Solberg
819.994.2482

Regina Rodriguez
Communications Coordinator
Neil Squire Society
604.473.9363

Barbara Stewart
Communications Manager
British Columbia Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance
250.360.6873

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