Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the contributions that persons with disabilities provide to our communities. This year, Disability Awareness Week is recognized in the NWT from May 28th until June 3rd. The theme for this year is Living, Working and Educating Together - Include People with Disabilities.
Disability can affect all of us directly or indirectly at any point in our lives. The onus of responsibility is upon us all to include people with disabilities in every aspect of life. The important message that comes with this is that we focus on people's abilities, rather than define them by their disabilities.
The Department of Health and Social Services, in partnership with other social program departments and agencies, continues to work at improving services for persons with disabilities. Partnerships with non-government agencies and the disability communities are critical if we are to better meet the needs of persons with disabilities.
For example, the NWT Council of Persons with Disabilities is expanding the Community Outreach programs to include Wekweeti, Gameti, Fort Simpson, Inuvik, Hay River and Behchoko, as well as the existing office in Fort Smith. The department has committed funding for the next three years to support the development of Community Outreach programs.
Recent developments in the creation of accessible housing, transportation and recreational facilities have improved the quality of life for persons with disabilities in our communities.
On June 5th, there will be a Disability Awareness Week celebration in the Great Hall of the Legislative Assembly at noon. I will be presenting Ms. Rae Celotti with an award for her work on behalf of persons with disabilities. Ms. Celotti has been a visible supporter for this cause for over 30 years. Since 1997, she has worked as the program coordinator for EmployABILITY, an employment program for individuals with disabilities.
Mr. Speaker, during Disability Awareness Week, let us recognize people like Ms. Celotti who make a different in our territory. I would also like to ask Members of this House to applaud persons with disabilities throughout the NWT as a gesture of thanks for their contributions and the strength they provide to our friends, families and communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause