The federal and British Columbia governments Friday announced the creation of a new provincial Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) action group to bolster awareness about the benefits of the program.

The newly appointed action group, composed of prominent and influential British Columbians who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting the benefits of RDSPs in their sectors and communities, will provide advice to the B.C. government on how to increase awareness and uptake of RDSPs.

The action group is led by Norah Flaherty, the sister of the late federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, who played a critical role in launching the RDSP in 2008.

The RDSP facilitates long-term savings for people with disabilities, their families and caregivers. Since its launch, over 90,000 RDSPs have been opened across Canada.

“Our new RDSP Action Group will help champion our commitment to make B.C. the most progressive jurisdiction for people with disabilities in Canada by increasing participation in the RDSP,” said Don McRae, B.C. Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation, in a release.

Friday’s announcement serves to mark RDSP Awareness Month.