The Canadian government remains steadfast in its commitment to evolve into the most accessible and inclusive nation globally. It firmly believes that the travel-related challenges encountered by Canadians with disabilities are utterly indefensible. To address this, the government is actively championing accessibility and the comprehensive integration of Canadians with disabilities. This involves a collaborative effort with the disability community, various stakeholders, different levels of government, and international allies.
In a significant move, the Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez, alongside the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera, revealed plans for Canada’s inaugural National Air Accessibility Summit. This event, organized jointly by Transport Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada, is scheduled for May 9, 2024, in Ottawa.
The summit aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the nation, including representatives from the air industry and the disability community. Its agenda includes discussing the current challenges faced by travelers with disabilities, exploring potential solutions and actionable strategies, and reviewing the advancements made following the implementation of the Accessible The Accessible Canada Act of 2019 and the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations of 2022.
“Canadians with disabilities have the same rights as all of us. They deserve equal access to air travel and a dignified experience. Our commitment to work with our partners in the air sector to guarantee that our national transportation system is accessible to all Canadians is a top priority. We must continue working together to ensure a more accessible and inclusive Canada.”
“Equitable and dignified access to air transport for Canadians with disabilities is non-negotiable. Recent events demonstrate that our airlines are not meeting the standards that Canadians with disabilities expect or deserve. It’s time for action, and it’s time for change. Through the National Air Accessibility Summit, we will ensure airlines take responsibility and deliver long-term and sustainable solutions to guarantee that all Canadians regardless of their abilities enjoy barrier-free air travel.”
The Canadian government has set a goal to achieve a completely accessible and barrier-free transportation system by 2040. Recognizing the importance of ensuring all Canadians, particularly those with disabilities, have equal chances to participate in community and work life, the government continues to support and promote activities aimed at making travel more accessible and equitable for everyone. This includes fostering seamless, door-to-door access for all travelers.
Noteworthy milestones include the enactment of the Accessible Canada Act on June 21, 2019, which aims for a barrier-free Canada by 2040. This act takes a proactive stance to identify, eliminate, and prevent accessibility barriers across seven key areas within federal jurisdiction, such as transportation. Furthermore, the Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (June 2019) and the Accessible Transportation Planning and Reporting Regulations (December 2021) have been introduced. These regulations establish legal requirements across various transportation modes to ensure an accessible transportation network, addressing the rights of persons with disabilities.
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