NDP Statement on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh made the following statement:

“Today, on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we recognize that Canada has a long way to go before our country is truly inclusive and barrier-free. People living with a disability have been fighting for their rights for generations, but it is up to all of us to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

People living with a disability have an unacceptable rate of poverty, have to deal with barriers to employment, and struggle with the accessibility of housing. They need support, yet, for years, the Liberal government has been talking about a new federal disability benefit with nothing to show for it.

The government needs to work to implement a guaranteed liveable income for people living with a disability, ensure quality employment is available to everyone through expanded employment programs, and create affordable, accessible housing across our country. The barriers people living with a disability face can be addressed with government action, and it’s time the government acts to help this community.

Today is a day to celebrate people living with a disability. And it’s also a day to recommit to being an ally in pushing the government to act urgently to address the barriers faced by people living with a disability. Disability inclusion is a fundamental part of upholding human rights. It’s time for justice for people living with a disability and it’s time for action from the Liberal government.”