Mar 24 Special Needs Stats and News- Canada Ratifies Rights of Persons With Disabilities

Canada Ratifies UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

March 11, 2010:

The Government of Canada has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at United Nations headquarters in New York City.

“Canada is committed to promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and enabling their full participation in society,” said Minister Cannon. “Ratification of this convention underscores the Government of Canada’s strong commitment to this goal.”

The Convention also contains provisions on issues unique to people with disabilities, such as accessibility, independent living and inclusion in the community, as well as the processes of rehabilitation and habilitation, through which those with disabilities learn to function fully in society.

There are approximately 4.4 million persons with disabilities in Canada—about 14.3 percent of the population.

For further information, media representatives may contact:

Catherine Loubier

Director of Communications

Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs

613-995-1851

Do you foresee an impact on your life with the ratification of the  UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities?