Government of Canada improves accessibility for Canadians with disabilities

November 30, 2009

Ottawa Journal (November 30 – December 04, 2009)
David Tilson, M.P. (Dufferin-Caledon)


The Government of Canada is taking concrete action to enable Canadians, regardless of physical ability, to participate in and contribute to their community and the economy. One of our Government’s key initiatives to expand opportunities for people with disabilities is the Enabling Accessibility Fund, a $45-million, three-year commitment. 

This year, the Fund is making more than $5.8 million available to support community‑based projects across Canada that improve accessibility and reduce barriers.  Some examples of these projects are building an interior or exterior ramp, installing automated door openers, building an accessible washroom, or installing a wheelchair lift in a community-based vehicle.

The challenges faced by people with disabilities, while living their day-to-day lives, are numerous and often go unnoticed. This is why our Government is dedicated to supporting people with disabilities and their families. These projects demonstrate the progress we are making as a society in helping people with disabilities to integrate fully into our communities.
   
Canada’s Economic Action Plan and other recent Federal initiatives are also addressing the needs of people with disabilities through a series of important measures. For example, we are investing $1 billion in renovations and energy retrofits for social housing. This includes renovations that support people with disabilities. We are also allocating $75 million for the construction of new social-housing units for people with disabilities. Furthermore, tax relief measures in Canada’s Economic Action Plan recognize the additional costs resulting from a disability or a medical condition.
   
Our Government has also introduced the Registered Disability Savings Plan. This plan is an important way for families and loved ones to contribute to the financial security and well-being of people with severe disabilities.
    
Through all of these initiatives, we are eliminating barriers and creating a more prosperous and positive future for all Canadians.