Government of Canada Announces Funding for The Alliance of Cultural Communities for Equality in the Health and Social Services
MONTRÉAL, January 19, 2004 -- Minister of Social Development and Member of Parliament (Verdun--Saint-Henri--Saint-Paul--Pointe Saint-Charles) Liza Frulla, on behalf of Minister of State (Multiculturalism and Status of Women) Jean Augustine, today announced funding of $51,931 for the Alliance of Cultural Communities for Equality in the Health and Social Services (ACCESSS) to help reinforce an information exchange network focusing on health service accessibility for cultural communities."It is our duty to ensure that all Canadians have access to public services," said Minister Frulla. "I am therefore pleased to announce this Government of Canada funding to an organization that supports Quebec's cultural communities in this regard."
"By treating all Canadian fairly, respecting their dignity and accommodating their needs, we are building a stronger Canada," said Minister of State Augustine. "This funding will help the Alliance continue its important work to give cultural communities improved access to health and social services in Quebec."
The funds will be used to organize regular meetings between organizations and researchers working on cultural community integration. These meetings will raise awareness of the current situation and of changes to Quebec's health care network to ensure cultural community members have access to these services.
ACCESSS is an association of more than 60 cultural community organizations committed to improving the accessibility and application of health care and social services across Quebec.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Multiculturalism Program. Canada's Multiculturalism Policy promotes the active and equitable participation of men and women of all origins in Canadian society. It promotes community action against racism and the elimination of institutional systemic barriers. It also encourages public institutions to respect and take into account Canada's multicultural character.
Funding for this initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Adam Burns
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of State
(Multiculturalism and Status of Women)
(819) 997-9900
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