(OTTAWA) March 24, 2016 - The Green Party of Canada is pleased to see the government has listened to the disability community and agreed to introduce a Canada Disabilities Act to eliminate systemic barriers and deliver equal opportunity for disabled Canadians.
“Improving the safeguards and opportunities for persons with disabilities is long overdue and is another essential step in ensuring that some of our most vulnerable citizens have the same rights and privileges as other Canadians,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands).
The Green Party of Canada has advocated for many years for such an Act, after listening to Canadians regarding inconsistent and varied standards, services and opportunities provided across the country. The government has committed to allocate $2 million for consultation and engagement over two years before introducing legislation.
The Green Party recommends that this legislation be entitled the “Canada Disabilities Act,” rather than the “Canadians with Disabilities Act.” Image is important. Disabilities impact not only persons with a disability but their families, friends and communities. To be effective, all Canadians will need to embrace and support this Act.
Joe Foster, Green Party Human Rights Critic, said: “We hope this is a first step in providing not only greater awareness, but standards and improved services that will assist persons with disabilities to more fully participate through opportunities in work, leisure and volunteering as equal members of society.”
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For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Dan Palmer
Press Secretary | Attaché de presse
Parti vert du Canada
m: (613) 614 4916
dan.palmer@greenparty.ca