VICTORIA— B.C. New Democrat leader John Horgan released the following statement in celebration of the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities:

“Today, my New Democrat colleagues and I join with British Columbians living with disabilities to celebrate inclusion. This year, the theme of this important day is ‘Inclusion Matters,’ and we salute the self-advocates, the organizations, and the people throughout our communities who work every day to make our province a more inclusive and accessible place.

“People with disabilities contribute every day to the wealth of our communities, and they make that contribution despite often significant barriers. We need to do everything we can to break down these barriers. When we do, we strengthen our communities, and we ensure that people with disabilities are empowered to build the lives they choose.

“There are some wonderful celebrations happening in our province today. There is much to celebrate, but while we celebrate success, I also want to acknowledge how much more can and should be done to make our province a more inclusive place. One change that needs to be made immediately is the end to the unfair and discriminatory claw back of maternity leave benefits for people living with disabilities. It’s a small change that will make a big difference for people at an important time in their life.

“New Democrats will continue to be a strong voice in the legislature for all those working towards a more inclusive British Columbia.”