November 17, 2008

Ontario Improving Accessibility

McGuinty Government Releases Accessibility Standard For Public Review

Ontario is taking another step towards improving accessibility for people with disabilities with the release of the proposed information and communications standard for public review. The standard was developed by a committee of people from the disability and business communities.

People with disabilities often face barriers in getting the information they need, whether on paper, online or in person. This proposed accessibility standard aims to ensure people of all abilities can equally access information.

Everyone, regardless of their ability, can provide their feedback over a 60-day period to help shape an accessible information and communication standard that will apply to businesses and organizations across Ontario.

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"The committee has done fabulous work over the last year to help make information and communication accessible to everyone in the province by 2025. The public review process is an important step to help the committee focus on areas they are looking for feedback on," said Community and Social Services Minister Madeleine Meilleur.

Quick Facts

Under its accessibility legislation, the province has a goal to make Ontario accessible by 2025 through the development of standards. The province's first accessibility standard - for customer service - is now law.
50 per cent of standards development committee members are people with disabilities.
Each year in Canada, people with disabilities spend approximately $25 billion. By improving accessibility, businesses can increase their customer base.

Learn More

Find out how you can provide accessible information to people with disabilities.

There are many things everyone can start doing today to break down barriers in their community. Visit www.AccessON.ca for tips and tools to improve accessibility.

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Kevin Cooke
Minister's Office,
416 325-5219

Anne Machowski-Smith,
Communications and Marketing Branch,
416 325-5156

Additional Information