Media Advisory - PSAC Access Conference - Let's focus on our abilities!

OTTAWA, June 2 /CNW Telbec/ - More than 100 union activists on disability rights will gather in Ottawa from all regions of the country on June 4, 2010 for the PSAC ACCESS Conference.

During the Conference, delegates will strategize on ways to promote more inclusive work environments, and to empower and engage persons with disabilities to take action in favour of equality and human rights and to defend quality public services. Delegates and speakers will also discuss topics regarding mental health for workers with disabilities and the employers' duty to accommodate.

PSAC is one of Canada's largest labour unions, representing 166,000 workers, primarily in the federal public sector.

    
    WHAT:  PSAC National Access Conference
    WHEN:  June 4-6, 2010
    WHERE: Westin Hotel, Ottawa

                           FEATURED SPEAKERS
    

MIKE ARNOLD

Specialist of the Accessibility, Accommodation and Adaptive Computer Technology (AAACT) Program team at Environment Canada.

MIRIAM EDELSON

Social activist, trade unionist and writer living in Toronto. Battle Cries: Justice For Kids with Special Needs was published in 2005.

CARMELA HUTCHISON

President of the Alberta Network for Mental Health (www.anmhf.ca) and a Board Director of the National Network for Mental Health (www.nnmh.ca). She is a founding member of the Canadian Coalition of Alternative Mental Health Resources.

TERRY KELLY

Award-winning singer/songwriter, internationally renowned motivational speaker, accomplished athlete and consummate entertainer. Terry received seven East Coast Music Awards.

CRAIG SPENCER

Long-time union representative who has defended the rights of persons with disabilities in different forums, including tribunals, courts and in the workplace.

ALEXANDER WADDELL

Discrimination Prevention Officer with the Prevention Initiatives and Liaison Division of the Canadian Human Rights Commission in Ottawa.

For further information: or to book interviews: Alain Cossette, PSAC Communications, [phone] (cell)