Manitoba releases proposed accessibility legislation for people with disabilities

Public encouraged to submit comments until Oct. 21

Manitoba’s new Accessibility Advisory Council has delivered its initial recommendations for legislation and standards that would help identify, remove and prevent barriers faced by people with disabilities, according to Family Services and Labour Minister Jennifer Howard.

“This in an important milestone in our work to ensuring better accessibility for all Manitobans,” said Howard. “I’m very pleased to receive the report and encourage everyone to participate in the creation of provincewide accessibility legislation by reviewing it as well and providing feedback.”

In creating the recommendations, the advisory council met regularly starting in November 2011 and held consultations with people with disabilities and organizations that may be affected by the recommendations. This included employers and businesses as well as representatives from Manitoba municipalities.

The council, made up of representatives from the disability community and other stakeholders, has submitted recommendations calling for:

•a process to develop clear, specific and achievable goals

•accessibility standards for both the private and public sectors

•a central role in the development of legislation for people with disabilities and other stakeholders affected by the legislation, such as businesses and municipalities

•no effect in any way on guarantees contained in human rights codes

•regular reviews of progress made.

The public is invited to provide comments on the report until Oct. 21. Visit www.manitoba.ca/dio to view the report.

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