News release

Community Members Appointed to Disabled Persons Commission

Community Services (to December 2024)

COMMUNITY SERVICES--Community Members Appointed to Disabled Persons Commission

Seven community representatives have been confirmed as members of the Disabled Persons Commission by the legislature's all-party standing committee on human resources.

"I am pleased by the calibre of applicants," said Peter Christie, Minister responsible for the Disabled Persons Commission. "These individuals bring a wealth of experience and understanding on the needs and abilities of persons with disabilities in Nova Scotia."

Ralph Ferguson of Pictou is a returning member to the commission. Ferguson is the chair of Let Abilities Work in Pictou County and is the commission's representative on the Nova Scotia Building Advisory Committee.

Joining Mr. Ferguson are:

  • William Crawford, Yarmouth: president of the Handicapped Organization Promoting Equality (Yarmouth) and representative for Nova Scotia's League for Equal Opportunities to the Council of Canadians with Disabilities

  • Scott Gillis, Kentville: a practising lawyer and member of the Kings County Partnership Committee for Persons with Disabilities

  • Audrey Harmer, Guysborough: is a past chair of the Canadian Paraplegics Association and the commission's first representative from Guysborough County

  • Brian Tapper, Dartmouth: a rehabilitation counsellor and a member of Team Work Cooperative

  • Jane Warren, Halifax: a member of the Brain Injury Association of Nova Scotia.

  • Julianne Acker-Verney, Halifax: a counsellor with the Metro Resource Centre for Independent Living and an active member of the disability community

These appointments are for two years effective Nov. 1.

The commission also has members representing key government departments with a stake in programs and services for persons with disabilities. They are:

  • Craig Hinchey, Department of Community Services
  • Brian Wilbur, Department of Health
  • Shaun Whittleton, Department of Education
  • Heather Chandler, Department of Human Resources
  • Karen Ramsland, Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations

"I am looking forward to working with the commission over the next several years as we continue to work towards self- sufficiency for all Nova Scotians," said Mr. Christie.

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