Wakeham Pledges Advocate for Persons with Disabilities

(St. John’s, NL) – Progressive Conservative Leader Tony Wakeham today announced that a PC government will establish a full-time, independent Advocate for Persons with Disabilities – ensuring that no one in Newfoundland and Labrador is left behind. Wakeham made the commitment in St. John’s alongside PC candidate David Thomlyn, noting that nearly one-third of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians live with a disability.

“David Thomlyn has been knocking on doors and talking to residents in Waterford Valley for months,” said Wakeham. “He continues to tell me that people need help and that persons with disabilities have waited too long for an advocate.” 

“For too long, persons with disabilities have been waiting on a promise that the Liberals failed to keep,” said Wakeham. “They pledged to create this office and then never delivered. A PC government will act – and will act quickly.”

The proposed Advocate for Persons with Disabilities would be an independent officer of the House of Assembly, with the mandate and resources to ensure services are accessible and inclusive and help prevent individuals and families from falling through the cracks.

Wakeham emphasized that his vision for a PC government is one that is for all of us.

“When I say all of us, that includes people with mobility challenges, people living with vision or hearing loss, intellectual disabilities, chronic pain, or any other disability,” said Wakeham. “Everyone deserves to know their government is there for them.”

“As our candidates knock on doors across Newfoundland and Labrador, we are sharing a simple message: Better Healthcare, Lower Taxes, and Safer Communities,” said Wakeham. “A PC government will be a government for all of us.”