Ontario NDP stands in solidarity with the AODA Alliance

QUEEN’S PARK – MPP Lise Vaugeois, NDP critic for Accessibility and Persons with Disabilities, released the following statement in solidarity with the AODA Alliance, which is at Queen’s Park today to hold public hearings on the status of accessibility in Ontario.

“This November marks the 30th anniversary of the advocacy that led to the creation of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). For 30 years, the AODA Alliance has been instrumental in pushing Ontario to become a more accessible place.

Today, we’ll be hearing from so many people who have come to Queen’s Park to share their stories and experiences. The Ontario NDP has reiterated our commitment to strengthening accessibility across the province. On behalf of the 2.9 million Ontarians with a disability, I asked the government if they would acknowledge the most recent review of the AODA which states that the province faces an “accessibility crisis”; however, they dodged the question. This government has consistently failed to require AODA standards in transit stations and the built environment.

As we sponsor the hearings for disability advocates today, we also urge the government to listen and enact the promised education and health care accessibility standards, developed under the terms of the AODA, that were recommended by experts almost three years ago.”

The AODA public hearing is being held today in NDP Board Room 351 from 2pm to 4pm.