CHAIRMAN'S FOREWORD
"A vision without a plan is romantic at best. A plan without a vision is simply adjusting the existing order of things." - AnonymousThe right to be treated fairly and equally, the opportunity to participate fully in every sphere of Canadian society, the freedom to make decisions that affect their daily lives - these are expectations of every Canadian citizen.
But many of the more than 4 million Canadians with disabilities have not shared in these inherent rights of citizenship. Obstacles continue to exist.
Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast have consistently expressed the desire and the will to see these obstacles removed. This report is thus a challenge to political leadership.
The Standing Committee on Human Rights and the Status of Persons with Disabilities has traditionally served as an effective voice in the federal system for people with disabilities. I am pleased that the members of this Committee have once more joined together to map out a clear direction for the future.
We share a vision that Parliament and government can assist people with disabilities in realizing their dream - the vision of inclusiveness that is the hallmark of our nation. That vision is captured in this report; the recommendations we have formulated are the cornerstones of a meaningful plan.
On behalf of the members of the Standing Committee, I thank those who appeared before us for sharing their insights and knowledge. Our thanks go as well to the staff of the Committee. Wayne Cole, the Clerk of the Committee, organized our activities and managed the production of this report. Dr. William Young of the Library of Parliament assisted the members in understanding the complexities of the issue and devoted many hours to the preparation of the report. And Nancy Holmes, also of the Library of Parliament, was instrumental in orchestrating the initial stages of our study.
Finally, the Chairman would like to thank the members of the Committee for their diligence and commitment.
