A Disability Advocate- is it the magic bullet for systemic change?

It has been 6 months since the "Supporting Safe and Inclusive Lives" final report was released, a response to looking at the safety of Albertans with disabilities. (Link to the report) 

Politicians next week will also talk about 1 of the 11 ideas also known as 'Private Members Bill 205- Disability Advocate'. As the safety standards report states, it would be best if the disability advocate is independent and reports directly to the legislature.  We would also like to remind the government nearly 2000 Albertans were consulted and created the road map of ideas to what is needed to fix the problems. 

While private members Bill 205, (now a government bill as of this week) has opened the doors to shine a light on the issues, we ask our MLAs these three questions...

1. What "action" has been taken since the Supporting Safe and Inclusive Lives" "report?  
2. What are we doing to review the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) program?
3. Are the systems in place working well?

"Building Inclusive Lives Report" calls for an advocacy office outside of government

There is not just one simple elegant solution to a complex host of issues when Albertans shared the 11 ideas to fix the problems. 

Not one magical solution for a complex problem.
An action plan is need

All 11 ideas need funding and a timeline. We need an action plan.

We are grateful for the meaningful debate for the private members 'Bill 205 -Disability Advocate'. It is a step in the right direction. However, action is needed to review the systems in place. Hall members look forward to an update on the steps taken since the release of the report. 

We also look forward to having our say how a disability advocate may help on Friday, June 2^nd, 2017 at the 'Humanity and Me' Speak Out 2017 held at the Lougheed House in Calgary from 1 to 3 pm. Tickets are on Eventbrite. All are welcome!