The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:

Speaker, it is an honour to rise today in this Honourable House to highlight our government’s commitment to create a more inclusive province for all people.

Budget 2023 includes $725,000 to support the community of persons with disabilities through program grants under the Disability Policy Office. These include the Accessible Vehicle and Taxi Grants, as well as the Inclusion and Capacity Grants. These programs are instrumental in improving accessibility.

In December 2021, the province’s first Accessibility Act came into force, and in June 2022 we established an Accessibility Standards Advisory Board.

This Board plays a pivotal role in advising on the development of standards, regulations and policies to identify, prevent and remove barriers for persons with disabilities. The first standard to be developed is a Customer Service Standard, and once implemented, the next one will be a Communications and Information Standard.

We continue to work closely with organizations, both of and for persons with disabilities, as well as advocacy groups and individuals to create a province that is inclusive and accessible. We are also working collaboratively across departments, including a review of the Buildings Accessibility Regulations and an assessment of government buildings to ensure enhancement of public access.

Speaker, our government embraces inclusion and diversity so that all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians can participate in, and contribute to, their communities.

Thank you.