Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the International Day of Disabled Persons.
Today is an opportunity to salute the contributions of Canadians with disabilities to our society. Most Canadians with disabilities are fully productive members of our society. Persons with disabilities are asking for nothing more than equal access, yet every day
they still encounter unnecessary obstacles in housing, education, employment, transportation, communication and recreation.
This government is committed to eliminating barriers to the disabled and ensuring that they have an opportunity to participate fully in Canadian society.
The recently released federal task force on disability issues discusses the federal government's role in ensuring equality of opportunity for all Canadians and makes valuable recommendations for government action.
As we mark this important day, I call on the government to continue its efforts to eliminate barriers to this very valuable community.