Page 4471 - Week 12 - Tuesday, 30 October 2018
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MS FITZHARRIS: It has been relocated to the paediatric overflow surgery ward. In relation to Mrs Dunne’s first question, I believe that those issues are being worked through at the moment as to whether it could be the subject of an insurance claim. I will also take that aspect of the question on notice.
Government—celebration of International Day of People with Disability
MADAM SPEAKER: I call Ms Cody.
MS CODY: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I know I’m wearing flat shoes; I must be a little bit difficult to see! My question is to the Minister for Disability. Minister, how is the ACT government supporting the celebration of the International Day of People with Disability in December?
MS STEPHEN-SMITH: I thank Ms Cody for her question. As you know, Madam Speaker, International Day of People with Disability, or I-Day, is indeed held on 3 December each year. It is a United Nations-sanctioned day that aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions.
The theme of I-Day this year is “empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality”. According to the United Nations, 2018’s theme focuses on empowering people with disabilities for inclusive, equitable and sustainable development as part of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development.
The ACT government proudly supports individuals and organisations in our community to celebrate I-Day through the I-Day grants. These grants encourage greater community participation for people with disability, showcasing their contributions and achievements, and building ongoing opportunities for people with disability to connect with their communities.
Earlier today I was pleased to announce the successful recipients for 2018: People with Disabilities ACT, Women with Disabilities ACT, Deaf Advocacy, Sports and Recreation ACT, Epilepsy ACT, TADACT, and the Ainslie and Gorman arts centres. I would like to again congratulate the six successful recipients on their ideas on programs and events that bring together people with disability, community organisations, businesses, individuals and government. I would also like to thank DeafACT, who came out to Regatta Point at lunchtime today to give me a taste of what to expect at their “come and try” event.
The I-Day grants encourage people with disability and the wider community to connect and socialise in a relaxed, inclusive environment and build ongoing connections through art, dance, sport, collaboration and conversation. I encourage everyone to join in I-Day events and activities and take the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions, skills and achievements of people with disability.
MS CODY: Minister, what else can individuals and groups do to recognise and celebrate I-Day in Canberra?
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