International Day of Disabled Persons Celebrated

On Monday, Dec. 3, people with disabilities and their employers will celebrate the International Day of Disabled Persons with a panel discussion on including more disabled people in Nova Scotia's workforce.

The discussion, titled Celebrating Work and Beyond: Nova Scotians with Disabilities -- an Untapped Resource, takes place at 10 a.m. in the Red Chamber, of Province House.

"There has never been a better climate in Nova Scotia for hiring people with disabilities," said Anne MacRae, executive director of the Disabled Persons Commission. "We know there is a skill shortage and Nova Scotians with disabilities are truly an untapped resource that can help Nova Scotia businesses fill their employment needs."

The theme of this year's International Day of Disabled Persons is Decent Work for People with Disabilities. It aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and attempts to mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of the benefits of integrating persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

Employers and employees representing Winners, RBC, the Public Service Commission and Pete's Frootique will participate in the panel. The discussion will explore key ingredients for the successful employment of people with disabilities.

The province will mark the day by releasing the annual report of the Labour Market Agreement for Persons with Disabilities. The report describes provincial government programs and services for persons with disabilities who want to enter the labour force. The departments of Community Services, Education and Health, have delivered labour market programs for persons with disabilities for many years, including career counselling, campus-based supports, addiction treatments and mental health services. These programs and services are funded annually by more than $16 million in federal and provincial money.