I was pleased recently that our provincial government was able to announce the renewing of our commitment to a long-term strategy for Manitobans who have disabilities. This included a $30-million down payment on more accessible housing, enhanced access to public buildings, more support for children with disabilities in childcare, better employment services and improved supports for caregivers
The vision for the provincial strategy is to create a more accessible, inclusive society. It marks the launch of consultations that will build the foundation for a long-term vision for Manitobans with disabilities.
It is important to remind ourselves that everyone has abilities. As my colleague Family Services and Housing Minister Gord Mackintosh stated, "People are not 'disabled' except by our attitudes and the environment built around them. Our challenge is to unleash the untapped energy by breaking down barriers."
The consultation focuses on 10 priorities for action as we to build on the 2001 strategy: Full Citizenship: A Manitoba Strategy on Disability.
The $30-million down payment, which includes contributions from the federal government, includes:
$5.4-million for HOMEWorks! for Manitobans with disabilities. This two-year federal-provincial initiative includes targeted construction of additional housing units and will focus on greater community living for people with intellectual disabilities, physical accessibility and housing that people with mobility restrictions can easily access.
a $11-million barrier-busting infrastructure plan.
$12.8 million in additional funding for disability services. This funding will largely help more people with intellectual disabilities live and participate in the þ community.
New market Abilities employment initiatives. Five hundred Manitobans with disabilities will be enabled to get jobs through Reaching E-Quality Employment Services with $522,000 in new funding.
A child-care inclusion support program. The plan includes funding for enhanced access to specialized equipment and as well as training and mentoring for child-care workers.
A boost to Manitoba's New Primary Caregiver Tax Credit. The caregiver of anyone in community living or children's special services will automatically qualify, to receive a tax credit of up to $1,020 each year.
My colleague Jennifer Howard, NDP MLA for Fort Rouge, will chair an inter-departmental working group of senior officials to steer the implementation of Opening Doors. There will be annual public reporting through the minister.
As a Northern MLA I will be working with my colleagues, community organizations and Northerners to provide "ability" focused support for the disabled in the North. There is clearly much more we can do break down barriers and enhance the support to and opportunities for the disabled.
