Canada Begins Ratification Process for Rights of Persons with Disabilities

On December 10, 2009 the Parliament of Canada passed a unanimous motion to support the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities "as soon as all provinces and territories have officially given their consent."  While this move signifies great potential gains for the disability community, the Government intends to impose a number of reservations on the Convention that may limit the legislation's effectiveness.

Earlier this year, the Canadian Down Syndrome Society had the opportunity to attend the Canadian Consultation on the Ratification on UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.  Krista Flint had the honor of facilitating a session with about 60 disability leaders from across Canada including Provincial Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Justice and Human Resources.  Kirk Crowther represented the interests of Canadians with Down syndrome.