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In the present context of labour shortages and skills gaps in Canada, it has been acknowledged that the country cannot afford to keep going without the talents of entire groups of populations that are currently underrepresented in the labour market. Among those groups are people with disabilities. This group is far from homogenous, and therefore not easy to define. Data in this paper helps to show a picture of the employment situation of people with disabilities. This paper also addresses some of the barriers that people with disabilities face, and provides an overview of certain federal programs that can help them. Finally, this paper discusses the Canadian legislative framework, with a focus on measures that prevent discrimination against people with disabilities, allowing them to join the workforce and engage fully in their communities. [Introduction]

Distributed by the Government of Canada Depository Services Program (Weekly checklist 2013-28) Issued also in French under title: Les personnes handicapées sur le marché canadien de l'emploi, un bassin de talents méconnus "29 March 2013"