For questions about this agenda, or to make arrangements for accessibility accommodations for persons attending, please contact: Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist at (905) 791-7800, Ext. 4778 or by e-mail at meenu.sikand@peelregion.ca Some meeting information may also be available in alternate formats, upon request. Please contact: Rachel Comacchio at (905) 791-7800, Ext. 5454 or by e-mail at rachel.comacchio@peelregion.ca.

REGION OF PEEL

ACCESSIBILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE AGENDA AAC - 4/2016 DATE: September 15, 2016 TIME: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM LOCATION: Council Chambers, 5 th Floor Regional Administrative Headquarters 10 Peel Centre Drive, Suite A

Brampton, Ontario MEMBERS: C. Belleth; A. Brar; R. Chopra; F. Dale; M. Daniel;

D. Farrace; T. Geraghty; A. Groves; N. Husain; R. Khedr; M. Mahoney; J. McArthur; M. Palleschi; L. Soulliere; T. Tamlin

Naz Husain, Chair to preside. 1.

CALL TO ORDER

2.

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

3.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

AAC-4/2016 AAC Agenda September 15, 2016 -2-

4. PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES

4.1. Minutes of the Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC – 3/2016) meeting held on June 16, 2016

5.

DELEGATIONS

6.

REPORTS

6.1. Corporate Policy G00-23 Accessible Formats and Communication Supports (Deferred from the June 16, 2016 Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting)

Presentation by Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist

6.2. TransHelp Updates on Home 2 Hub Pilot Program (Oral) Presentation by David Margiotta, Program Manager, Transportation Master Plan

6.3. Region of Peel Accommodation for Persons with Disability Policy Framework (Oral) Presentation by Debra Wight, Manager Workplace Health, Safety and Wellness

6.4. Accessibility Planning Program Update - September 15, 2016 (For information)

7.

COMMUNICATIONS

7.1. Barrier-Free Canada, Publication dated September 1, 2016, Providing the September 2016 Newsletter including Upcoming Public Engagement schedule of National Disabilities Minister Carla Qualtrough (Receipt recommended)

8.

OTHER BUSINESS

9.

NEXT MEETING

Thursday, November 17, 2016 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Council Chamber, 5th floor Regional Administrative Headquarters 10 Peel Centre Dr., Suite A Brampton, ON

10.

ADJOURNMENT

* See text for arrivals

See text for departures

REGION OF PEEL

ACCESSIBILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

MINUTES

AAC - 3/2016 The Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee met on June 16, 2016 in the Regional Council Chamber, 5th Floor, Regional Administrative Headquarters, 10 Peel Centre Drive, Suite A, Brampton. Members Present: R. Chopra; F. Dale; M. Daniel; D. Farrace; R. Khedr; M. Mahoney;

T. Tamlin Members Absent: C. Belleth; A. Brar; T. Geraghty; A. Groves; N. Husain; J.

McArthur; M. Palleschi; L. Soulliere Also Present: Region of Peel: L. Graham-Watson, Commissioner of Corporate

Services; D. Labrecque, Commissioner of Public Works; K. Lockyer, Regional Clerk and Director of Clerk’s; V. Ghandour, Acting Manager, Access to Information and Privacy; M. Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist; K. Dubuque, Legislative Specialist; V. Montesdeoca, Legislative Specialist; R. Comacchio, Committee Clerk

Chaired by Dely Farrace. 1.

CALL TO ORDER

Dely Farrace, Committee Vice-Chair of the Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) called the meeting to order at 1:32 p.m. 2.

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - Nil

4.1-1

AAC – 3/2016 Thursday, June 16, 2016

-2-

3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Moved by F. Dale; RECOMMENDATION AAC-6-2016: That the agenda for the June 16, 2016, Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting be approved.

4. PREVIOUS MEETING MINUTES 4.1.

Minutes of the Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC - 2/2016) meeting held on April 21, 2016

Received

5. DELEGATIONS – Nil

6. REPORTS 6.1.

TransHelp Update for Accessibility Advisory Committee

Presentation by David Margiotta, Program Manager, and Aislin O’Hara, Project Advisor, TransHelp

Received STAFF DIRECTION AAC-2016-3-01:

That staff report back to the September 15, 2016 AAC meeting with an update on the Eligibility Policy and decision-making tool.

David Margiotta, Program Manager and Aislin O’Hara, Project Advisor, TransHelp, provided an overview of the recertification process for the TransHelp program as a result of the changes to eligibility criteria under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Part of the work to meet the January 2017 deadline includes: developing recertification of current users, a new application form, and ensuring staffing and resources are in place. A report will be presented to Regional Council on July 7, 2016 providing options on the Passenger Assistant Program. Raj Chopra, Committee Member, asked if people with epilepsy would fall into the eligibility categories. Aislin O’Hara stated that epilepsy is considered part of the Human Rights Code definition of disability and a person with epilepsy would be eligible for TransHelp. Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, suggested the use of organizations other than the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) when assessing eligibility as not all those with a visual impairment have a valid CNIB card. Dely Farrace, Committee Vice-Chair, questioned the timing of the new eligibility process and how new applicants will be notified. Aislin O’Hara advised that the new requirements are to begin in January 2017 and that applicants should receive a response within 14 calendar days from date of application, as required under the AODA.

4.1-2

AAC – 3/2016 Thursday, June 16, 2016

-3-

6.2. Peel 2041 Regional Official Plan Review - Accessibility Related Policies

Presentation by John Yeh, Principal Planner, Integrated Planning Division

Received John Yeh, Principal Planner, Integrated Planning Division, provided an update on the Peel 2041 Regional Official Plan Review and how it relates to accessibility policies. Accessibility policies continue to be reviewed through related policy topic areas (e.g. transportation, housing, aging, etc.) as identified in ROPA 27. Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, questioned whether disability and employment standards, as they relate to the design work/live communities, were considered. John Yeh advised that site plans are part of the considerations however, the Region has no control over the interior design of buildings. Raj Chopra, Committee Member, suggested that educational materials be provided in different languages and alternate formats during the consultation process. 6.3. Cheltenham Badlands Update

Presentation by Serguei Kabanov, Project Manager, Transportation Division

Received

Serguei Kabanov, Project Manager, provided an overview of the Cheltenham Badlands parking lot project including background information on the current and proposed condition of the Badlands location, the parking lot, the pedestrian sidewalk and the accessible parking spot. He noted that accessibility was taken into account when considering the placement of the accessible parking spot. In response to concerns raised by the Committee regarding the placement of the accessible parking spot, Dan Labrecque, Commissioner of Public Works, assured that careful consideration and planning went into the placement of the accessible parking given the nature and terrain of the site. He stated that the parking spot allows those with disabilities to park and view the Badlands site from that location. 6.4. Accessibility Planning Program Update - June 16, 2016

Received

See also Communications – Item 7.1 6.5. Corporate Policy G00-23 Accessible Formats and Communications Support

Deferred to the September 15, 2016 AAC meeting

4.1-3

AAC – 3/2016 Thursday, June 16, 2016

-4-

7. COMMUNICATIONS

7.1. Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and

Infrastructure, Email dated April 22, 2016, Providing an Update on the Progress of the Accessibility Certification Program

Received

See also Reports – Item 6.4 7.2. Alfred Spencer, Director, Outreach and Strategic Initiatives, Accessibility

Directorate of Ontario, Email dated May 5, 2016, Providing a Copy of the New Publication titled “Planning Accessible Events: So Everyone Feels Welcome”

Received

7.3. Ministry of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure, Email

dated June 9, 2016, Regarding Changes to the Accessible Customer Service Standards and Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation

Received

8. OTHER BUSINESS

9. NEXT MEETING The next meeting of the Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee is scheduled for Thursday, September 15, 2016 at 1:30 p.m., Council Chamber, 5th floor, Regional Administrative Headquarters, Suite A, 10 Peel Centre Drive, Brampton, Ontario. Please forward regrets to Rachel Comacchio, Committee Clerk, (905) 791-7800 ext. 5454 or at rachel.comacchio@peelregion.ca. 10. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 3:31 p.m.

4.1-4

Region of Peel

DEFERRED FROM REGION OF PEEL ACCESSIBILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE June 16, 2016

6. REPORTS 6.5. Corporate Policy G00-23 Accessible Formats and Communications Support

Deferred to the September 15, 2016 AAC meeting

6.1-1

1

6.1-2

2

To provide staff with assistance in responding to requests for:

∗ Documents in accessible formats, and/or

∗ Information provided through or with a communication support

∗ To ensure that Region shall meet the information and communication needs of all staff with disabilities as required under the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR) Employment Standards.

Purpose

6.1-3

3

∗ Requires Staff to ensure that the Region meets the needs of its staff and customers who use alternate methods to access information.

∗ Requires staff consider accessibility of materials in order to reduce barriers

Policy

6.1-4

4

∗ Cost to produce alternative format is at no additional cost to requester

∗ Staff must produce material in an alternative format within a reasonable time frame

Policy

6.1-5

5

∗ On May 31, 2016, Accessible Format and Communication Support Policy was launched with a training and celebration at the Region’s National Access Awareness Week (NAAW) Event

∗ Additional in-class staff training on creating alternative formats were held on June 6, 2016.

Policy Launch and Training

6.1-6

National Access Awareness Week Event Survey Results

Event Satisfaction Feedback

6.1-7

7

The Accessibility Planning Program, with the support of the Business Intelligence team, surveyed event attendees to measure their satisfaction of the event.

The objectives of the survey was to:∗ determine the level of satisfaction with the training; ∗ gain a staff perspective about their key take-aways from the training

event; and∗ gather feedback about potential training event enhancements

Introduction

6.1-8

National Access Awareness Week Event Feedback

6.1-9

9

National Access Awareness Week Event Satisfaction Rating

71%

80%

84%

97%

82%

17%

11%

10%

3%

11%

13%

9%

6%

6%

Training length of time

Practical value of training

Information presented during the

training

Training location

Overall satisfaction with the event

Favorable Neutral Unfavorable

6.1-10

10

Accessibile Format Awareness

81%

81%

83%

91%

100%

9%

10%

9%

3%

10%

9%

9%

6%

I know where to locate the accessible formats

policy and guidelines

I understand my role in ensuring others provide

information in an accessible format

I understand the difference between accessible

formats and alternate format

I know what my role is in providing information

in an accessible format

As a Regional employee, I understand the need

to provide information in accessible formats

Favorable Neutral Unfavorable

6.1-11

Staff Comments Analysis

6.1-12

12

Staff’s Comments

Provide more training

Training focussed mostly on the requirements of the legislation

More education on actual accommodations for a variety of disabilities

More hands on -how to make documents accessible

More on colors and contrasts, how to make graphics accessible

More awareness on working with

disability

How to work and interact with people with different types of disability

How people in our community with accessibility needs are interacting with the Region of Peel

Information about other disabilities that we may not be aware

More awareness about how cognitive disabilities act as barriers in people's lives

Showcase Peel’s accessibility format and real case study

Include members from our community to speak about their experiences

Opportunity to showcase the work done in the previous year that demonstrates support for an accessible workplace

What is happening and has been happening at the Region related to accessibility

Tools available and improvement

How the Region of Peel is moving ahead with ensuring that the website is accessible

What software the Region has chosen to use for this

Improvements in technology

6.1-13

_________________________________________________________________________

CATEGORY: GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCATEGORY: GENERAL SUBJECT: ACCESSIBILE FORMATS & COMMUNICATION SUPPORTS

Corporate Policy Number: G00-23 Policy Page: 1 of 4

A. PURPOSE

This policy outlines the Region of Peel’s (the Region’s) responsibilities under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) specifically section 12 of the Integrated Accessibility Standards (IASR), Regulation 191/11, which requires that upon request, the Region shall provide or arrange for the provisions of accessible formats and communication supports for persons with disabilities as it relates to information about regional goods, services or facilities. This policy is intended to provide staff with assistance in responding to requests for:

• documents in accessible formats, and/or

• information provided through or with a communication support. This policy is also intended to ensure that Region shall meet the information and communication needs of all staff with disabilities as required under the IASR Employment Standards.

B. SCOPE

This policy applies to all Regional staff, volunteers, consultants and contractors who produce information and communication materials on behalf of the Region. This policy shall be interpreted consistent with the:

• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 11 (AODA)

• Ontario Regulation 191/11 Integrated Accessibility Standards (IASR)

• Ontario Regulation 429/07 Accessibility Standards for Customer Service

• Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 32 (ODA)

• Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19 In addition, this policy shall be interpreted consistent with the following policies and by-law:

• G00-20 Accessibility Policy

• G00-18 Accessible Customer Service Policy

• Region of Peel Purchasing By-law 63-2008

• TransHelp Policies

• HR03-32 Accommodation for Persons with Disabilities

6.1-14

_________________________________________________________________________

CATEGORY: GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCATEGORY: GENERAL SUBJECT: ACCESSIBILE FORMATS & COMMUNICATION SUPPORTS

Corporate Policy Number: G00-23 Policy Page: 2 of 4

C. DEFINITIONS

Accessible/Alternate Format - a medium and/or methodology that allows access to information in a manner other than how the format was originally delivered. These may include, but are not limited to, large print, recorded audio and electronic formats, and Braille. Alternatives to standard print are often referred to as “accessible formats” and methods to assist with communication are referred to as “communication supports”. Assistive Devices - technical aids, communication devices, or medical aids modified or customized for use in increasing, maintaining or improving the functional ability of a person with a disability. These may include, but are not limited to, wheelchairs, walkers, white canes, note taking devices, portable magnifiers, recording machines, assistive listening devices and personal oxygen tanks. A person with a disability may bring their own assistive devices or the devices may be available on the premises. Barriers - obstacles that impede people with disabilities from fully participating in all aspects of society because of their disability. Barriers include attitude, technology, architectural/structural, information and communication, and systemic. Communication Supports - tools to facilitate effective communications with persons with disabilities. These may include, but are not limited to, captions, text within images, plain language and sign language. Disability - as defined in the Human Rights Code:

• any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical coordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device;

• a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability;

• a learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language;

• a mental disorder; or

6.1-15

_________________________________________________________________________

CATEGORY: GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCATEGORY: GENERAL SUBJECT: ACCESSIBILE FORMATS & COMMUNICATION SUPPORTS

Corporate Policy Number: G00-23 Policy Page: 3 of 4

• an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997

Municipal Goods, Services or Facilities - goods, services or facilities provided by the Region or a third party service provider. Third Party Service Provider - an individual, an agency or an organization that is responsible for delivering goods or services on behalf of the Region. These may include, but are not limited to, contractors and vendors.

D. POLICY

1. Staff shall utilize this policy to ensure that the Region meets the Information and Communication Supports needs of its staff and customers who use alternate methods to access information. Region must ensure that such accessibility is considered for its customers as well as staff when acquiring goods and delivering Regional programs and services.

2. Staff shall consider accessibility of publications, presentations, tools, videos and

documents produced during their design and development stages. All efforts must be made to develop publications, presentations, tools, videos or documents in such a way that it reduces barriers in the original source of publications, presentations, tools, videos and documents to provide an inclusive user experience.

3. Processing Requests:

Requests for an accessible format or communication support can be received by staff in person, by writing, by phone/TTY such as the call center or by electronic formats such as emails or service requests. Upon receipt of a request, staff will complete the Online Request Form http://www.peelregion.ca/accessible-info/ and forward it to the program area responsible for requested publication, presentation, tool, video or document. A copy of the request is also forwarded to the Accessibility Planning Program for record keeping purposes. The request is to be responded by the appropriate operational staff within a timely manner. A direct link to this form is provided on the accessibility page of http://www.peelregion.ca/accessible-info/.

6.1-16

_________________________________________________________________________

CATEGORY: GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCATEGORY: GENERAL SUBJECT: ACCESSIBILE FORMATS & COMMUNICATION SUPPORTS

Corporate Policy Number: G00-23 Policy Page: 4 of 4

4. Timeframe: a) The timeframe to convert publications, presentations, tools, videos and

documents into an accessible format or arranging for various Communication Supports, can vary depending on the type of the format requested. When staff receives a request, the size, complexity, quality of source publications, presentations, tools, videos or documentation, and the number of documents required conversion must be considered in determining the time frame to complete the conversion. Requests shall be completed in a timely manner.

b) If a request is being made to access materials, which are part of public

consultation and has a fixed timeframe for public to provide comments, staff must consider these times constrains, when processing requests.

5. Cost of Conversion:

a) When a member of the public requests a Regional document in an accessible

format or information with a communication support, the department of origin is responsible for the cost of conversion, materials and distribution of information.

b) Once the appropriate format or support is determined with the requestor, staff

shall provide or arrange for the provision of the accessible formats and/or communication support for persons with disabilities.

c) If a staff member determines that information is unconvertible, they shall, in

consultation with their manager, provide the person requesting the information or communication with:

i. a written explanation as to why the information or communications are

unconvertible; and, ii. a summary of the unconvertible information or communication.

d) When needed, the Accessibility Planning Program will assist program staff to

help determine if information can be converted.

6. Monitoring/Contraventions: Supervisors and managers shall monitor current practices to ensure compliance. Failure to comply with the AODA regulations may result in provincial administrative penalties and all efforts must be made to avoid such penalties.

6.1-17

_________________________________________________________________________

CATEGORY: GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCATEGORY: GENERAL SUBJECT: ACCESSIBILE FORMATS & COMMUNICATION SUPPORTS

Corporate Policy Number: G00-23 Policy Page: 5 of 4

E. RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Program Areas:

When a member of the public requests a document in an accessible format or information with a communication support, the department or division of the original publications, presentations, tools, videos and documents is responsible for arranging for the accommodation and the costs associated with the accommodation, at no additional cost to the requester.

2. Accessibility Planning Program:

a) Keeping a non-identifying log of information about requests received;

b) Monitoring compliance with this procedure on an annual basis;

c) Maintained a list of resources available to create accessible publications,

presentations, tools, videos and documents.

3. Directors:

a) Creating and maintaining regional goods, services or facilities free from discrimination toward persons with disabilities;

b) Budgeting for the costs associated with accessible formats and Communication Supports of materials originating from their departments;

c) Monitoring situations where requests for accessible formats and Communication Supports have been made.

4. Managers and Supervisors:

a) Creating and maintaining regional goods, services or facilities free from

discrimination toward persons with disabilities by making alternative formats available when requested;

b) Ensuring staff are aware of this policy;

c) Tracking costs associated with requests;

d) Ensuring staff are providing residents and Regional staff with the requested accessible format and communication support.

6.1-18

_________________________________________________________________________

CATEGORY: GENERAL GOVERNMENT SUBCATEGORY: GENERAL SUBJECT: ACCESSIBILE FORMATS & COMMUNICATION SUPPORTS

Corporate Policy Number: G00-23 Policy Page: 6 of 4

5. Communications Staff:

a) Ensuring their client groups are aware of the Region of Peel obligations under the AODA and guide them to produce all outward facing and internal information releases, posted electronically or via printed hard copies, such as media releases, flyers, promotional and educational brochures etc. with accessibility built into the original source documents.

b) Ensuring that following best practices are considered by client groups when assisting clients with their communication requests: i. Use of clear and consistent language; ii. Provide sufficient color contrast for text and images; iii. Create consistent and clean layouts for printed content; iv. Ensure electronic information is created accessible within the source

document:

• Alt tags are available on each photo • Consistent and clean layouts for content and navigation through

all web pages • Mobile website should provide options of Readable PDF, HTML

and/or TEXT with clear, concise language • Large print format by using the A- or A+ function located on each

page of the Region of Peel website A list of resources is available: Resource Guide for Accessible Formats

APPROVAL SOURCE: CAO Directive C16-02

ORIGINAL DATE: April 20, 2016

LAST REVIEW DATE: April 20, 2016

LAST UPDATE: April 20, 2016

EFFECTIVE DATE: April 20, 2016

RESPONSIBILITY: Corporate Services Department/Clerk’s Division

6.1-19

TransHelp Updates on

Home 2 Hub Pilot Program

ATMP

Fall 2016Fall 2016Fall 2016Fall 2016

6.2-1

Introducing…

Home 2 (to) Hub – Pilot Project

6.2-2

People with disabilities have transportation options. Every day, many people with disabilities use conventional transit services to go to school, work or the mall. The Home to Hub (H2H) pilot project is an opportunity for TransHelp to learn about transit integration so it can better provide

service to its clients.

What is Home 2 Hub?

6.2-3

How does it work?

to

return

Change of Service Delivery

6.2-4

How does it work? (continued)

Identify

participants and

eligible trips

Participant

picked up at

home by

TransHelp

Participant

dropped off by

TransHelp at

Conventional

Transit Hub

Participant

takes

conventional

transit to

destination

6.2-5

TransHelp takes

Participant to

home

Participant is

dropped off at

conventional

transit hub and

picked up by TH

Participant takes

conventional

transit from

original

destination

How does it work? (continued)

6.2-6

Why were people interested in participating?

• Conventional Transit in Brampton and Mississauga is nearly 100% accessible

• AODA Compliance

• By connecting with Conventional Transit, TransHelp clients can take more trips to more locations at more flexible times

• To leave a legacy and be a champion of promoting an integrated approach to transit in Peel

INTEGRATIONMORE

MOBILITY

ACCESSIBILITYAODA

6.2-7

Who are some of our volunteer ambassadors?

Participant # 1 is 47 years old. He uses a motorized scooter to get around. Every Monday, he goes from home to the Brampton Senior Centre. In the Home 2 Hub Pilot, he takes TransHelp to go from home to the Bramalea Go Station, where he boards the 15a Bramalea bus that takes him to his destination. The bus stop at the Bramalea Go, as well as at his destination is fully accessible.

Participant # 4 is 17 years old. He is very excited about getting an internship with a company in downtown Toronto to finish off his summer. As a Home 2 Hub participant, he will take TransHelp to Clarkson Go Station, where he will then take the Lakeshore Go Train to Union Station. He will then transfer over to WheelTrans that will take him the rest of the route to his destination. He plans on doing this every weekday, there and back, for one month. He also plans on using the Go Transit support system that will have a Go Attendant help him on and off the train both ways. He uses an electric chair to get around.

6.2-8

Early Results• 5 TransHelp Clients started the pilot on July 25• 81 anticipated trips completed through Home

2 Hub by the end of August • Participants have reported that they love the

flexibility of taking integrated trips!

Reporting back to AAC

Once the pilot finishes and feedback is collected and organized – we will share with you the experiences and lessons learned.

6.2-9

The FUTURE of TransHelp

Question: What’s your advice on

ways to engage our community and

keep the larger audience informed?

6.2-10

Questions?

David Margiotta, Program Manager, ATMPDavid.Margiotta@peelregion.ca

Aislin O’Hara, Project Adviser, ATMPAislin.O’Hara@peelregion.ca

6.2-11

To: Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee By: Debra Wight, Manager Workplace Health, Safety & Wellness Date: September 15, 2016

Region of Peel

Accommodation for

Persons with Disability

Policy Framework

6.3-1

Accommodation Policy Framework

Policy Policy

Procedure Procedure

Guidelines Guidelines

• Outlines organizational commitment, guiding principles and shared roles

• Outlines detailed steps for reasonable accommodation throughout the employment cycle

• User friendly information in plain language specifying stakeholder responsibilities

6.3-2

Framework

Highlights

PURPOSE

Outlines the Region’s obligations, and responsibilities related to workplace accommodation

INTENT

Foster a supportive & inclusive workplace culture

SCOPE

Applies to all regional employees & job applicants

POLICY ALIGNMENT

Aligns with Diversity Charter, Regional Values, and Policies

COMPLIANCE

Complies with legal requirements & standards

6.3-3

Organizational Commitment

INDIVIDUAL ACCOMMODATION PLANS

SUPPORTIVE & INCLUSIVE CULTURE

LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE

CONFIDENTIALITY & SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES

CLEAR ROLES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

6.3-4

Guiding Principles (GP)

• Shared accountability & responsibility

GP #1

• Respect for Employee Dignity

GP#2

• Stakeholder consultation & involvement

GP#3

• Inclusive process

GP#4

• Respect for confidentiality

GP#5

•Equitable treatment

GP #6

•Health & Safety focus

GP #7

•Work integration

GP #8

•Meaningful work

GP #9

•Hierarchy of Accommodation

GP #10

6.3-5

Pre-injury position, with or without accommodation

Comparable position available within the same Division

Comparable position available within the same Department

Appropriate available alternative work within the Region

Hierarchy for Accommodation 6.3-6

For Further Information…

Community Resources

Region’s Website

Customer Service Hotline

Human Resources Division

Employee Resources

Region’s Intranet Resources

Manager & Supervisor

Human Resources Division

6.3-7

CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 1 of 9

A. PURPOSE This policy outlines the Region of Peel’s (Region’s) obligations and responsibilities related to the accommodation for persons with disabilities throughout their employment cycle. Its intent is to create a framework for fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture for persons with disabilities. B. SCOPE This policy applies to all Region employees throughout the employment cycle and job applicants who may need accommodation during the recruitment process at the Region.

It aligns with the Diversity & Inclusion Charter of Peel, our Regional Values, and all applicable legislative requirements. The requirements set out in this policy do not replace or substitute the requirements established under Ontario’s Human Rights Code and do not limit any obligations to persons with disabilities under any other legislation. As such, this policy shall be interpreted consistent with the:

• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, S.O. 2005, c. 11 (AODA) • Ontario Regulation 191/11 Integrated Accessibility Standards (IASR), (refer to

Part III Employment Standards) • Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 32 (ODA) • Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.19 • Workplace Safety & Insurance Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 16, Schedule A

In addition, this policy shall be interpreted consistent with Regional policies including but not limited to the following:

• Policy HR02-01 Code of Conduct • Policy GOO-20 Accessibility • Policy HR03-01 Healthy Workplace

6.3-8

CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 2 of 9

C. DEFINITIONS:

Accommodation: The arrangements made or assistance provided so that persons with disabilities can participate in employment experiences available to persons without disabilities. Accommodation will vary depending on the unique needs of the employee or job applicant. Accessibility: The absence of barriers which prevent persons and/or groups from fully participating in all aspects of employment. The term is often linked to persons with disabilities and their rights to access. Barriers: Obstacles that impede persons with disabilities from fully participating in all aspects of society because of their disability. Barriers include attitude, technology, architectural/structural, information and communication, and systemic.

Disability: All disabilities protected in the Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, Ch.H.19 and is defined in sec.10 of the Code as: a) Any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is

caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical co-ordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device.

b) A condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability. c) A learning disability, or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in

understanding or using symbols or spoken language. d) A mental disorder. e) An injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the

insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997.

For purposes of this policy, a disability may be either temporary or permanent in nature.

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CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 3 of 9

Duty to Accommodate: The obligation of an employer to take steps to eliminate the disadvantage caused by systemic, attitudinal, or physical barriers that exclude persons or groups protected under the Human Rights Code from participating in all aspects of employment. There is an obligation to explore all accommodation options and to implement an accommodation solution that is reasonable. Every accommodation request must be fully considered, and may be refused if the request is not related to a Human Rights Code-related need or undue hardship can be demonstrated. Employee: Any person hired by the Region on a regular, contract, temporary or casual basis, working either full-time or part-time hours. Essential Duties: The main job tasks of a position that an employee or job applicant must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, in order to achieve the overall objective of the position. Job Applicant: A person who has applied to work at the Region and requires accommodation in order to participate during the recruitment process. Protected/Prohibited Grounds: The criteria for protection under the Human Rights Code. Every person has the right to equal treatment on the basis of the following: race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, receipt of public assistance, age, record of offences, marital status, family status, or disability. Region: The Regional Municipality of Peel. Supervisor: This refers to an individual who has full supervisory responsibility for an employee, or is responsible for making hiring decisions within the Region. For the purpose of this policy, this may include Supervisor, Manager, Director, Commissioner, or Chief Administrative Officer, as applicable. Undue Hardship: This refers to the extent to which an employer must attempt to accommodate the needs of an employee or job applicant on protected grounds under the Human Rights Code. The Code prescribes three considerations in assessing whether an accommodation could cause undue hardship: cost, outside sources of funding and health and safety considerations. Note: Budgetary restrictions cannot be assumed to be a barrier to accommodation. If the costs of providing necessary accommodations are an issue, please consult with the Disability Management Supervisor in Human Resources who will escalate the request, as required.

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CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 4 of 9

D. POLICY

1. STATEMENT OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT

The Region is committed to:

a) Ensuring that each person with a disability will be considered individually, on a case-by-case basis, in order to determine accommodation requirements;

b) Achieving a culture and work environment that is supportive of employees with disabilities;

c) Ensuring compliance with all applicable legislation, collective agreement provisions and Regional policies;

d) Establishing an accommodation process that is consistent with principles of confidentiality and shared responsibility;

e) Clarifying roles and accountabilities for all workplace parties within the Region for the accommodation process;

within the guidelines of the Human Rights Code and up to the point of undue hardship.

2. GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Guiding principles for accommodating persons with disabilities at the Region include:

a) Shared accountability and responsibility, amongst all workplace parties,

including the person requiring accommodation, supervisor, union, and the Region.

b) Respect for the dignity of each person by ensuring that accommodations and assistive devices are provided to meet specific circumstances, while at the same time working to ensure general accessibility for all employees in terms of spatial and physical requirements.

c) Consultation involving the person requiring accommodation, supervisor, union and the Region.

d) Inclusive process to ensure that the person requiring accommodation is involved in the plan design.

e) Respect for confidentiality.

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CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 5 of 9

f) Equitable treatment for all persons with disabilities. A consistent process will be used for all persons requiring accommodation, whether the source of their injury or illness is occupational or non-occupational.

g) Consideration of health and safety for persons with disabilities, co-workers

and the public when developing an accommodation plan. h) Integration of accommodation activities for persons with disabilities

considered throughout the employment cycle. i) Availability of meaningful work that is within the employee’s capabilities and

skill set. j) Hierarchy for accommodation is as follows:

i. Pre-injury position, with or without accommodation. ii. Comparable available position within the same Division, with or without

accommodation. iii. Comparable available position within the same Department, with or

without accommodation. iv. Appropriate available alternative work within the Region, with or without

accommodation.

The Region will strive to accommodate unionized employees within their own union, if possible.

3. CONFIDENTIALITY In order to facilitate the accommodation process, the Region may ask the employee or job applicant to provide information pertaining to their disability (i.e. nature of disability, limitations, and anticipated duration). The information will be managed in a manner that is consistent with the requirements outlined in the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Personal Health Information Protection Act, as appropriate. Where the accommodation process requires the release of confidential information to a third party (such as an external assessor), the third party, and any person or department delegated by that third party, will be required to ensure that confidentiality is protected, that the information obtained is kept in a secure location, and used solely for the purpose that the release was required. Personal information

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CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 6 of 9

concerning an employee or job applicant’s disability will not be released to a third party by the Region without the prior written consent of the individual. The Region will not request any confidential health information. Notwithstanding, any health information that is received which indicates diagnosis or that could reasonably suggest diagnosis is considered confidential by Disability Management Services section of Human Resources and will not be accessible or disclosed to any workplace parties. If an employee or job applicant voluntarily discloses medical information to their supervisor, union, or the Region, staff will maintain the confidentiality of this information, unless the employee or job applicant authorizes its release.

E. RESPONSIBILITIES All employees are responsible for supporting this policy’s objectives and principles. Supervisors recognize that they bear special responsibility in ensuring that their actions are in compliance with the policy and the legislated requirements of the Human Rights Code and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.

1. Supervisor:

Supervisors are responsible for:

a) Ensuring the policy is consistently and fairly applied in their area of responsibility.

b) Responding promptly to all accommodation requests.

c) Inquiring if an employee requires accommodation or assistance in the event that they may have a disability and does not ask for help.

d) Keeping a record of the accommodation request and action taken, and

ensuring that appropriate confidentiality is maintained.

e) Working in partnership with the employee, Human Resources and any internal or external resources that are utilized, to identify and implement accommodation requirements.

f) Providing accommodation to the extent it does not cause undue hardship.

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CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 7 of 9

g) Implementing and overseeing accommodations within work unit, facilitating the integration of the employee being accommodated, and ensuring a supportive work environment.

2. Persons with Disabilities

Employees requesting accommodation are responsible for:

a) Advising their supervisor of accommodation needs, preferably in writing. This

initiates the accommodation process.

b) Cooperating in the accommodation process, including but not limited to:

i. Answering questions and providing information regarding relevant restrictions or limitations, including information from health care providers, where appropriate, and as needed.

ii. Facilitating the identification of accommodation solutions.

iii. Working with any experts whose assistance is required to manage the

accommodation process. c) Working with their supervisor to ensure that performance and job standards

are feasible and appropriate based on the disability and the essential duties of the position.

d) Complying with the accommodation plan.

e) Advising their supervisor immediately of any change in circumstance that affects the accommodation plan.

Job applicant requesting accommodation is responsible for:

f) Advising the hiring supervisor or Human Resources staff of any

accommodations that may be required during the recruitment process.

The Region is committed to ensuring that job applicants are only asked to respond to questions during the recruitment process that relate to their skills, abilities and qualifications for the position.

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CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 8 of 9

3. Human Resources

Human Resources is responsible for:

a) Ensuring the policy is interpreted and consistently applied throughout the organization to promote the Region’s interest in supporting a healthy, safe and inclusive work environment.

b) Maintaining confidential information as required under this Policy.

c) Acting as a resource for all workplace parties in resolving, tracking and

monitoring any employee accommodation issues within the Region. d) Tracking and maintaining statistics on accommodation, including reports and

statistics on the types and costs of accommodations made (without identifying persons).

e) Referring issues appropriately to the Director, Human Resources, as

required.

The Director of Human Resources is responsible for:

f) Assuming overall accountability for the interpretation, application and maintenance of this policy.

g) Facilitating the resolution of any disputes concerning accommodation. h) Requesting appropriate resources for training and accommodations. i) Reviewing this Policy regularly and making changes, as required.

4. Executive Leadership Team

Executive Leadership Team is responsible for:

a) Assuming overall accountability for the Region’s Accommodation for Persons

with Disabilities Policy and Program, including ensuring the Region is in compliance with all legislative requirements.

b) Ensuring appropriate resources and services are available to carry out accommodation under this Policy.

6.3-15

CATEGORY: HUMAN RESOURCES SUBCATEGORY: HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLNESS SUBJECT: ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

04/2016

Corporate Policy Number: HR03-32 Policies Page: 9 of 9

5. Unions

Under the Human Rights Code, Unions are expected to take an active role as partners in the accommodation process. As such, they share a joint responsibility with the Region for promoting accommodation and supporting employees with disabilities. Unions are encouraged to:

a) Act as a support or representative for unionized employees with disabilities. b) Accompany unionized employees with disabilities to disability management

meetings, when requested by the employee. c) Take an active role in suggesting and testing alternative approaches, and

cooperate fully when solutions are proposed. d) Respect the privacy of the person requesting accommodation.

APPROVAL SOURCE: CAO Directive C16-01 ORIGINAL DATE: April 1, 2016 LAST REVIEW DATE: April 1, 2016 LAST UPDATE: April 1, 2016 EFFECTIVE DATE: April 1, 2016 RESPONSIBILITY: Corporate Services/Human Resources/Workplace Health,

Safety & Wellness

6.3-16

REPORT Meeting Date: 2016-09-15

Accessibility Advisory Committee

For Information

DATE: August 23, 2016

REPORT TITLE: ACCESSIBILITY PLANNING PROGRAM UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 15,

2016

FROM: Lorraine Graham-Watson, Commissioner of Corporate Services

OBJECTIVE

To provide an update on the activities undertaken by the Region of Peel Accessibility Planning Program and the Accessibility Advisory Committee since the June 16, 2016 Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting. REPORT HIGHLIGHTS

The Accessibility Advisory Committee and Accessibility Planning Program were involved in various activities during this period, which are categorized as:

o Consultation and Compliance Support provided to Regional Programs, and o Participation in Community Events;

The report also includes some upcoming events DISCUSSION

1. Background

The objective of the Region of Peel’s Accessibility Planning Program (AP) is to ensure that Regional programs, services and facilities continue to be inclusive and accessible for persons with disabilities. In order to accomplish this objective, the Accessibility Planning Program works collaboratively with all Regional departments and the Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC).

2. Activity List

The following are the activities the AP and the AAC have been involved in since the June 16, 2016 report was presented. The activities have been divided into two categories: Consultation and Compliance Support, Participation in Community Events.

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ACCESSIBILITY PLANNING PROGRAM UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 15, 2016

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Consultation and Compliance Support

a) Creating a web based “Accessibility Hub” for staff and Peel residents

The Region of Peel has recently launched a new home page (Peelregion.ca) for Peel residents and the internal website (Pathways) for staff.

Its new design is focusing on providing improved communications with Peel residents and staff.

The AP program is currently working with staff to include an “Accessibility Hub” on the internal and external webpages to ensure our new websites meet the AODA legislative requirements and the functional needs of users, including those with a disability.

The AP program has investigated and compiled tools and resource materials to inform staff.

The AP program is reviewing the internal Accessibility Program website and stream-lining the existing content information to improve delivery of digital information.

Once a draft design of the proposed content page is complete it will be shared with the AAC.

b) Region of Peel Accessible Format and Communications Support Policy

Information about the Accessible Format and Communications Support Policy was shared with the AAC members at the April 2016 meeting.

On May 3, 2016, the policy was approved by the CAO’s office and has been posted on the internal Region of Peel website under the “Policies” section.

The National Access Awareness Week event held on May 31, 2016 was used to launch the policy.

The AP program is developing resources and tools to assist staff in producing information in accessible formats.

Community Events

No events to report for this period.

Upcoming Events

a) International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)

December 3 is the annual International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The Campaign has a different theme each year.

The Region of Peel has been celebrating IDPD since 2004 and will be hosting an internal educational event this year.

IDPD is a great opportunity for organizations to share their commitment to accessibility.

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ACCESSIBILITY PLANNING PROGRAM UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 15, 2016

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AAC members will be approached for their input and assistance; once the AP specialist has drafted recommendations to commemorate this year’s event.

b) Councillor Saito’s Annual Seniors Fair

An annual resource fair organized in Mississauga Ward 9 by Councillor Saito to provide seniors with information regarding the programs and services that the Region, Mississauga and local organizations provide.

AAC members are invited every year to participate in the event and engage with the public on behalf of the Accessibility Advisory Committee and assist the AP program in disseminating Regional information.

Date: Tuesday September 13, 2016 from 10:00 am - 12:00 noon

Location : Meadowvale Community Centre CONCLUSION

This report summarizes the activities and consultations that the AP program and the AAC members have participated in since June 16, 2016. The AAC and AP program will continue to engage in activities that support the Region of Peel’s accessibility objective of ensuring Regional programs, services and facilities continue to be inclusive and accessible for all persons with disabilities and respond to our evolving community needs.

Lorraine Graham-Watson, Commissioner of Corporate Services Approved for Submission:

D. Szwarc, Chief Administrative Officer For further information regarding this report, please contact Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, ext.4778, meenu.sikand@peelregion.ca. Authored By: Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, Region of Peel

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Comacchio, Rachel

From: Barrier-Free Canada <barrierfreecanada@gmail.com>

Sent: September 1, 2016 3:18 PM

Subject: Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrières - The September 2016 Newsletter

Dear supporter of BFC-CSB, we're back for September and due to the importance of ensuring that you are kept up to date with regard to the upcoming public engagements by minister Qualtrough, we are sending out our September newsletter at this time. We again thank you for your continuing support because it is only through you and with you that success could be achieved. Yours sincerely, Leo Bissonnette on behalf of Donna J. Jodhan founder and co-chair Barrier-Free Canada/Canada Sans Barrières www.barrierfreecanada.org info@barrierfreecanada.org A Non-Partisan Campaign for a Barrier-Free Canada for All Persons with Disabilities The September 2016 Newsletter Table of contents 1. Recent Breaking Events in the Campaign for a Strong, Effectively Enforced Canadians with Disabilities Act 2. Some Reflections on These Recent Events 3. The Toronto Star August 28, 2016 article 4. Canadians with disabilities: By the numbers 5. Government of Canada's August 23, 2016 Announcement of Public Consultation Forums Across Ontario 6. See who presently supports Barrier Free Canada – Canada sans Barrières 7. How to Contact Barrier Free Canada - Canada sans Barrières * Recent Breaking Events in the Campaign for a Strong, Effectively Enforced Canadians with Disabilities Act Right on the heels of our August 2016 Barrier-Free Canada Newsletter, we bring you this September Newsletter, because of late-breaking developments. The Federal Government has now announced the dates for the public forums it will host over the fall and winter to gather input from the public on what the promised Canadians with Disabilities Act should include. We set out the announcement below. The dates and locations are as follows, which we re-organized into their chronological order: Whitehorse, Yukon / September 22, 2016. Iqaluit, Nunavut / September 24, 2016 Yellowknife, Northwest Territories / September 26, 2016 Regina, Saskatchewan / September 28, 2016 Winnipeg, Manitoba / October 3, 2016 Edmonton, Alberta / October 7, 2016

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Thunder Bay, Ontario / October 12, 2016 Calgary, Alberta / October 13, 2016 Moncton, New Brunswick / October 20, 2016 St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador / November 3, 2016 Québec, Quebec / November 10, 2016 Victoria, British Columbia / November 7, 2016 Montréal, Quebec / November 16, 2016 Vancouver, British Columbia / November 26, 2016 Ottawa, Ontario / November 30, 2016 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island / December 8, 2016 Halifax, Nova Scotia / December 9, 2016 Toronto, Ontario / February 8, 2017 The date for the thunder Bay Ontario forum, October 12, 2016, is also Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. We have brought this to the Federal Government's attention in order that an alternate date can be found. These forums should not be held on the major holidays of any faith community. The Federal Government has also announced that on November 1, 2016 it will hold a National Youth Forum on accessibility to get input on this legislation. We encourage anyone who is eligible and interested to apply to the Federal Government to take part in this event by the September 15, 2016 2016 deadline. Barrier-Free Canada is hard at work preparing an Action Kit for you. It will give tips and ideas for anyone interested in taking part in these public forums. Please stay tuned! In the meantime, if you want to read a detailed discussion of what the promised Canadians with Disabilities Act should include, read you should take a look at the revised Discussion Paper on this topic which Barrier-Free Canada co-chair David Lepofsky has written. You can download the revised Discussion Paper on the

promised Canadians with Disabilities Act by visiting http://www.aodaalliance.org/strong-effective-aoda/august-19-2016-discussion-paper-on-a-Canadians-with-Disabilities-Act-by-David-Lepofsky.docx or by sending an email to us at info@barrierfreecanada.org We continue to welcome your ideas and feedback on what you would like to see this legislation include. Below we also set out an excellent article in the august 28, 2016 edition of the Toronto Star on the Federal Government's recent announcement of its Canadians with Disabilities Act consultation. In that article, the Toronto Star quotes Barrier-Free Canada as responding positively to this announcement. We also set out the speaking notes for the speech that National Disabilities Minister Carla Qualtrough at her August 23, 2016 media event at the Abilities Centre in Whitby, which had Barrier-Free Canada representation among the large audience in attendance. * Some Reflections on These Recent Events This is an exciting time in Canada for anyone concerned about making Canada an accessible place for people with disabilities. We commend the Federal Government for planning a nationwide public consultation on the promised Canadians with Disabilities Act. We commend Minister Qualtrough for demonstrating so much energy and enthusiasm in connection with this legislation. It was especially encouraging that in her speech at the Abilities Centre on August 23, 2016, Minister Qualtrough commendably recognized the core reason why Canada needs a strong, effectively enforced Canadians with Disabilities Act. She said:

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"The current system unfairly burdens individual Canadians to identify a barrier or instances of discrimination which are then brought forward for examination and resolution. Needless to say—this vigilance is exhausting, prohibitively expensive, and I know you agree with me that it is fundamentally wrong." It is great that the new minister is thinking about big, bold action, and not mere tinkering. At the same time, it is important for us to offer reflections on two points that arose from these events. First, the Federal Government has at several points said that the goal of this legislation is to "improve accessibility". It is important for us to tell the Federal Government during the upcoming public consultation process that this is too weak a goal. The goal should be to make Canada accessible to people with disabilities. If one single ramp is installed somewhere in Canada, we have "improved" accessibility. Second, in the Toronto Star's August 28, 2016 article, set out below, Minister Qualtrough is quoted as considering the possibility of establishing one uniform legal definition for "disability" to be used across the Federal Government. The article states: "One of Qualtrough's main goals is to develop a common definition for disability that would apply to all federal laws and regulations and eventually be adopted by the provinces. "Let's try and harmonize our approach to disability across the federal government. That would be huge for Canadians."" This is the first we had heard of this idea from the Federal Government. Harmonizing programs across Canada has some real advantages for people with disabilities. however, the idea of creating a single definition of "disability" for all legislation and all programs, federal or provincial, has very serious problems and should not be pursued. There is no one " right" all-purpose definition of "disability" for all laws and all Government programs across Canada. The definition of "disability" needs to vary, depending on the law or program where it is used. For example, a broad definition of "disability" is desirable in a human rights code, or in an accessibility law like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act or the Accessibility for Manitobans Act. A serious problem with the Americans with Disabilities Act that we have striven to avoid in Canada has been the use of a "disability" definition that was too narrow. On the other hand, it is desirable to use a narrower definition of "disability" in an employment equity law or program. If a very broad definition of "disability" were used in an employment equity law, then employers could argue that they have already met any targets to be expected of them, for hiring people with disabilities, because they have employees who wear glasses or who are colour blind. By that approach, people with more substantial disabilities, who face huge unemployment rates, may end up still being left out in the cold. A leading book on this issue is "Physical Disability and Social Policy" by Jerome Bickenbach, University of Toronto Press 1993. Therefore, the Minister's commendable desire to harmonize programs and laws on disability should be pursued, but not by trying to come up with a "one size fits all" definition of "disability". That can only work to the disadvantage of people with disabilities. In saying this, we don't want to discourage the minister from a desire to go bold in her efforts. * The Toronto Star August 28, 2016 article

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News Blind MP to draft national accessibility law; Human rights lawyer and Paralympian seeks input in crafting new legislation Graphic: Carla Qualtrough, minister responsible for Canadians with disabilities, meets with Catherine Partlow, a gold medal Special Olympian. Andrew Lahodynskyj/Toronto Star Carla Qualtrough, who is legally blind, grew up learning alternative ways of doing almost everything. "When I was growing up, it was called accommodation. But today it's called innovation," said Qualtrough, 44, Canada's federal minister of sport and first-ever minister responsible for people with disabilities. The human rights lawyer and former Paralympics and world championship swimming medallist is helping Canadians think about disability in a new way as she crafts the country's first national accessibility legislation. Under the current legal framework, people with disabilities can only defend their rights once they have been ignored, a process the minister called "exhausting, expensive and unfairly burdensome." "When systems and spaces are accessible, every Canadian wins. Barriers are bad for business," Qualtrough told a gathering last week at Whitby's Abilities Centre, where she announced a series of national round-tables and town hall meetings this fall. The government has received more than 700 submissions since online consultations on the new law began in July. Canadians have until February 2017 to give their views. Qualtrough will report on the consultations next spring and said she hopes to have legislation ready to introduce in the Commons by the end of 2017 or early 2018. The MP from Delta, B.C., said she was thrilled when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gave her the double-barrelled portfolio - encompassing her two life passions - and told her to "go out and change the world." "No pressure," she quipped. "The creation of this cabinet position makes it very clear that people with disabilities are important to our government and that we deserve to be considered in every decision around the cabinet table." Just as Ginger Rogers once noted how she had to perform the same artistic feats as her dance partner, Fred Astaire - but backwards and in high heels - people with disabilities are masters of innovation, Qualtrough said. "Imagine the creativity that persons with disabilities must employ every day to navigate buildings, products and services that were not designed with their needs in mind," she said. "Development of creative products, ways of doing things and - ultimately - a different way of looking at the world" are key to Canada's quest for accessibility, she added. Qualtrough, who has worked in human rights at both the federal and provincial levels and served as staff for several Liberal cabinet ministers on Parliament Hill between 1999 and 2005, knows her way around Ottawa.

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But the busy mother of four, including two teenage stepchildren and her own 6- and 3-year-old kids, admits she hesitated when asked to run for office a year and a half ago. She's glad she took the plunge. "It's a very interesting time in the evolution of disability rights," she said. For the government to create a cabinet position and to give it to someone with a disability, "it's a big deal." Toronto lawyer David Lepofsky, co-chair of Barrier-Free Canada, which called for a national law during last year's election, is also excited about Qualtrough's appointment and her mandate. "It's great that the federal government is going to do a national consultation on this to hear from people," said Lepofsky, who is also blind. Canada is late to the table when it comes to accessibility legislation. The United States has had the Americans with Disabilities Act since 1990. The landmark Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act was introduced in 2005, with a goal of making the province fully accessible by 2025. Ontario's experience will help guide the federal law, Qualtrough said. But she will also be looking at how other provinces and countries legislate accessibility and learn from their successes and shortcomings. One of Qualtrough's main goals is to develop a common definition for disability that would apply to all federal laws and regulations and eventually be adopted by the provinces. "Let's try and harmonize our approach to disability across the federal government. That would be huge for Canadians." Qualtrough expects public consultations, the country's first national conversation about accessibility, will provide valuable input for Ottawa's legislation and other federal programs such as the Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefit, the Disability Tax Credit and the Registered Disability Savings Plan. It may even show provincial and municipal governments where they are coming up short. "We know we are going to hear way more than what is going to be covered by the law. And that is intentional," she said. Laurie Monsebraaten Toronto Star * Canadians with disabilities: By the numbers 14 Percentage of Canadians aged 15 and older with a disability that limits their daily activities. 411,600 People aged 15 to 64 not employed, whose disability does not prevent them from working. 127,700 Unemployed people with disabilities who have post-secondary educations. 50 Percentage of Canadian human rights complaints related to disabilities between 2011 and 2015. 6 Percentage of Canadian human rights complaints related to inaccessible services.

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2.1 million Canadians 15 or older at risk of facing physical or communication barriers. $15 million Annual budget of Canada's Enabling Accessibility Fund, which helps improve accessibility in communities and workplaces. $4 million Increase in annual federal accessibility fund by 2018. * Government of Canada's August 23, 2016 Announcement of Public Consultation Forums Across Ontario Originally posted at: http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=1115409&tp=1 How accessibility is driving innovation in Canada In-person consultations to inform the development of planned accessibility legislation announced August 23, 2016 Whitby, Ontario Employment and Social Development Canada Today, the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, visited the Abilities Centre in Whitby, Ontario, and hosted a panel with three young Canadian innovators to discuss how accessibility drives innovation. The Minister toured the centre, noting the accessibility measures in place there, which serve as an example for other communities across Canada. Minister Qualtrough also announced the schedule of the in-person consultations organized to inform planned accessibility legislation. Minister Qualtrough participated in a dynamic discussion with the three young Canadian innovators:

• Maayan Ziv, the creator of an online platform that uses crowdsourcing to pinpoint the accessibility status of locations on an interactive map; • Micah Rakoff Bellman, the designer of Lift, a height-adjustable and movable table with integrated storage that provides home cooks a comfortable and flexible work surface in the kitchen; and • Quayce Thomas, an architecture student who has developed Timsle, a Fitbit-type app that promotes healthy, active living using social networks.

Many more thought-provoking discussions such as these will happen in the next few months, as the Minister travels across the country to engage and consult with Canadians about what an Accessible Canada could look like. In-person public sessions will be held in 18 cities from September to December. Canadians are encouraged to visit Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada to find an in-person consultation session in their area. These sessions will provide all Canadians with an opportunity to share their ideas on how to improve accessibility and inclusion across Canada. Canadians can also participate in the consultation exercise online at Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada, and can follow @AccessibleGC and the hashtag #AccessibleCanada on Twitter and Accessible Canada on Facebook. The consultation process will run until February 2017. Minister Qualtrough also encouraged young people from across Canada to apply to participate in the National Youth Forum on Accessibility, which will take place on November 1st. This event will provide Canadian youth who have experience and expertise in disabilities and accessibility with an opportunity to engage in the policy discussion. More information is available at Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada. Quotes

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“Today we are taking another exciting step in our discussion on accessibility. Increasing accessibility is not

only the right thing to do, but it also has social and economic benefits for all Canadians. Canada is well

positioned to become a global leader in innovative service delivery, technology and universal design. Together,

we will reshape the landscape for Canadians with disabilities.” – The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities Further Information News Release: What does an accessible Canada mean to you? Planned Accessibility Legislation #AccessibleCanada Contacts Ashley Michnowski Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities 819-934-1122 / TTY: 1-866-702-6967 Media Relations Office Employment and Social Development Canada 819-994-5559 media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca Follow us on Twitter Follow us on Facebook

Backgrounder

Abilities Centre The Abilities Centre is an internationally renowned, innovative community hub where people of all ages and abilities enrich their lives by engaging in social, health and cultural programs. The centre delivers sports, health and fitness, arts and culture, leading-edge research, education and life skills programming in a welcoming, positive, energetic environment. The Abilities Centre is a not-for-profit corporation and a registered charity operating in Whitby, Ontario. The centre is a 2016 winner of the Ontario David C. Onley Award for Leadership in Accessibility. Consultation to inform the development of accessibility legislation Minister Qualtrough, Canada’s first Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, was mandated by the Prime Minister to lead an engagement process with stakeholders—including Canadians with disabilities, provinces, territories and municipalities—that would inform planned legislation to transform how the Government of Canada addresses accessibility. The consultation process is now open, until February 2017. Starting in September, Canadians across Canada will be able to participate in the in-person consultation engagement process. In-person public consultations are planned to take place in the following cities:

• St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador / November 3, 2016 • Halifax, Nova Scotia / December 9, 2016

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• Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island / December 8, 2016 • Moncton, New Brunswick / October 20, 2016 • Québec, Quebec / November 10, 2016 • Montréal, Quebec / November 16, 2016 • Ottawa, Ontario / November 30, 2016 • Toronto, Ontario / February 8, 2017 • Thunder Bay, Ontario / October 12, 2016 • Winnipeg, Manitoba / October 3, 2016 • Regina, Saskatchewan / September 28, 2016 • Calgary, Alberta / October 13, 2016 • Edmonton, Alberta / October 7, 2016 • Vancouver, British Columbia / November 26, 2016 • Victoria, British Columbia / November 7, 2016 • Iqaluit, Nunavut / September 24, 2016 • Yellowknife, Northwest Territories / September 26, 2016 • Whitehorse, Yukon / September 22, 2016.

For the most up-to-date information on in-person venues and dates, and to participate online, please visit Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada. Minister Qualtrough will also participate in roundtable discussions, as well as a National Youth Forum that will engage Canadian youth with disabilities in the policy discussion. National Youth Forum Minister Qualtrough, as part of her mandate to consult with Canadians on the development of new accessibility legislation, will host a one-day National Youth Forum in Ottawa on November 1st 2016. The Forum will provide an opportunity for Canadian youth with disabilities to discuss what accessibility means to them, share ideas for the new legislation, connect with peers and celebrate youth leadership in building a more accessible Canada. Applicants must: - be between 15 and 30 years old in November, 2016; - be residents of Canada; - have a disability or have life, academic or work experience related to disability and accessibility; and - demonstrate their leadership or involvement in an area related to disability and accessibility in their community, region or nationally. The deadline to submit an application is September 15, 2016. Successful applicants will be contacted by The Office for Disability Issues in the fall. For more information about how to submit an application to participate in the National Youth Forum please visit: Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada. Innovator Bios Maayan Ziv – Founder and CEO of AccessNow Mayaan has a passion for creating a more accessible world for people who use a wheelchair. Mayaan created the AccessNow mobile app, which uses crowd sourcing to collect and share accessibility information all around the world. Micah Rakoff Bellman – Winner of the 2016 annual Innovative Designs for Accessibility (IDeA)

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Micah is a student at Carleton University’s Industrial Design program. Micah has developed an invention called Lift, which is a height-adjustable, movable table which integrates storage that provides home cooks with a comfortable and flexible surface in the kitchen. The device strives to give more freedom to older individuals and people with disabilities. Quayce Thomas, Winner of the 2015 annual Innovative Designs for Accessibility (IDeA) Quayce is an entrepreneur and architecture student at Carleton University, has seen his app taking the top prize in the IDeA competition in 2015. Timsle is an app that promotes healthy active living by checking in to make sure users are meeting the goals they’ve shared with their social network. This “accountability network” helps meeting academic or other goals and preventing depression. Speaking Notes for Disabilities Minister Carla Qualtrough's August 23, 2016 Speech at the Abilities Centre, Whitby Ontario

Speaking Notes

for

the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities,

How Accessibility is Driving Innovation: Launch of in-person Accessibility Consultations

at Abilities Centre

August 23, 2016 Whitby, Ontario

Check against delivery 2016 PASRB 006822 Hello everyone. It’s my pleasure to be here with you at Whitby’s state-of-the-art Abilities Centre. What a wonderful facility! Wouldn’t it be great if we had centres like this in communities across Canada? This space and this community are true example of what we can do when we start from a place of inclusion and keep opportunity in mind. I was deeply honoured to be named the first federal Minister dedicated to persons with disabilities. The creation of this cabinet position makes it very clear that people with disabilities are important to our government and that we deserve to be considered in every decision around the Cabinet table. We must consider the needs of Canadians with disabilities in every aspect of society. We need to create services—workplaces—transit systems and communities that consider accessibility from the outset. We want to move from a model where accessibility is the exception and accommodations come after we discover barriers to one in which we incorporate accessibility—in every sense of the word – into everything we build and use. This shift – both monumental and simple at once – is a game changer. To start—we need a legal framework that protects and promotes accessibility.

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Right now—within our current legal framework, people with disabilities can only defend their rights after they’ve been violated. The current system unfairly burdens individual Canadians to identify a barrier or instances of discrimination which are then brought forward for examination and resolution. Needless to say—this vigilance is exhausting, prohibitively expensive, and I know you agree with me that it is fundamentally wrong. That’s exactly why Prime Minister Justin Trudeau asked me to lead a process on planned accessibility legislation. In order to create relevant and robust legislation—I need to get input from Canadians like you. I appreciate you taking time to be here – to help us get this right. In a few minutes, I look forward to speaking with several outstanding “Accessibility Innovators” about their take on what an accessible Canada means. These young Canadians are demonstrating how accessibility can drive innovation, and create a new way of doing things. Better ways of creating and thinking about accessibility. I have said this before and expect you will hear it from our Accessibility Innovators as well - when systems and spaces are accessible, every Canadian wins. Barriers are bad for business. When asked about Fred Astaire’s dance ability, Ginger Rogers once responded that she had to do everything that he did, but backwards and in heels. Imagine the creativity that persons with disabilities must employ every day to navigate buildings, products and services that were not designed with their needs in mind. Development of creative products, ways of doing things and – ultimately – a different way of looking at the world. These young innovators have done exactly that: tackled barriers that could otherwise impede people with disabilities from easily and seamlessly participating in their communities. Their work takes innovation, drive, determination and yes, creativity. In fact, I find their work tremendously inspirational. I am honoured be share a bit about them with you. Maayan Ziv is founder and CEO of AccessNow, an on-line platform that uses crowdsourcing to pin-point the accessibility status of locations on an interactive map. Living with muscular dystrophy, Maayan is motivated to create a more accessible world. Micah Rakoff Bellmana student of Carleton’s Industrial Design program, has seen his invention called Lift taking the top prize in this year’s IDeA competition through which Ontario’s university undergraduate students compete to come up with inventions that help remove barriers for people with disabilities. His innovation is a height-adjustable, movable table with integrated storage that provides home cooks a comfortable and flexible work surface in the kitchen. The height adjustability allows Lift to be used as a counter at a suitable height for users of any level of ability. This device strives to give more freedom to older individuals and people with disabilities in the kitchen. Quayce Thomas, an entrepreneur and architecture student at Carleton University, saw his app take the top prize in the IDeA competition in 2015. Timsle is an app that promotes healthy active living using social networks. This “accountability network” helps people with disabilities to meet academic or other goals and prevent depression. I can’t wait to hear what these inspiring young people have to say. Cette discussion sur l’accessibilité est tellement importante et comme tous les voyages – elle pourrait nous entraîner sur une foule d’avenues. L’accessibilité veut-elle dire rendre les immeubles accessibles? Ou s’assurer

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que les programmes et services sont réellement accessibles pour tous les Canadiens? Ou encore veut-elle dire éliminer les obstacles à l’emploi pour les Canadiens handicapés? J’ai quelques idées sur ce qu’elle signifie pour moi. Premièrement – l’accessibilité veut dire donner des choix aux gens. Lorsque les Canadiens s’impliquent dans leur collectivité ou dans leur milieu de travail ou communiquent avec leur gouvernement – ces interactions devraient être conçues pour tenir compte des besoins de tout le monde. Les obstacles à l’accessibilité limitent le choix : « Je ne peux pas… », « Elle n’est pas en mesure de… », « Ce serait bien s’il pouvait… » Je crois que les Canadiens ne devraient pas avoir à surmonter des obstacles pour faire partie d’un monde que la société considère comme la normalité. Tout le monde devrait se sentir membre à part entière de la société et avoir des options pour participer de façon égale. Si je veux conduire un autobus – entrer dans un immeuble par la porte avant – ou consulter un site Web – c’est mon choix. Et je veux avoir la possibilité de le faire. Deuxièmement – l’accessibilité veut dire éliminer les préjugés au sujet de l’incapacité – notamment pour les Canadiens ayant une incapacité qui n’est pas apparente pour tout le monde. Nous devons nous concentrer sur le potentiel et la contribution des gens – pas sur leurs limites. Changer les perceptions est une dure bataille – mais je sais que nous pouvons relever le défi. And lastly—I want all Canadians to see accessibility and inclusion as the keys to productivity. Accessibility is good for business. Barriers are bad for business. That might be a good hashtag? Canadians with disabilities are an untapped resource who can offer so much to our communities and our economy. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Canadians with disabilities and helping to create environments where they can be independent and participate equally in their communities and workplaces. Removing barriers and creating opportunities for a more active and prosperous society is good for our collective health and for our economy. When I was growing up—my world was not as accessible as it is now. I can tell you that I learned some of the most important lessons in my life by considering my choices. I learned that I had a right to be accommodated. I learned that asking for help was not a weakness—in fact it was a strength. And I learned that there was always another way of doing things if you couldn't do something the way that it had always been done. Today we call this innovation. Who better to inspire innovation than people who innovate every day of their lives? Designing the physical environment, programs, products and services in a way that accommodates people with varying needs can only lead to bigger and better ideas. That’s what I think about accessibility. But that’s just one small voice—I want to hear from our innovators here today, I want to hear from all of you—and from all Canadians. As many of you already know—in July we launched our online consultation at Canada.ca/ AccessibleCanada. To date—we have received close to 700 responses, ranging from stakeholder organizations, employers, families and people with disabilities themselves. And the rate of participation continues to grow. Les Canadiens ont hâte de raconter leur histoire et nous avons hâte de les entendre. Aujourd’hui, nous franchissons un autre grand pas dans notre discussion sur l’accessibilité.

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Augmenter l’accessibilité est non seulement la bonne chose à faire – mais cela présente aussi des avantages sociaux et économiques pour tous les Canadiens. Le Canada est en bonne voie de devenir un chef de file mondial en matière d’innovation dans la prestation de services – la technologie et la conception universelle. Ensemble – nous transformerons la réalité des Canadiens handicapés. And today I’m here to celebrate the launch of our in-person consultations on accessibility legislation. These consultations will be starting soon in cities across the country and continue throughout the fall. And I am looking forward to hearing from all Canadians. On November 1st — I’ll also be hosting a one-day national forum for young Canadians with disabilities and those involved with disability and accessibility issues. This will give young people a chance to share their ideas on accessibility—to showcase their accomplishments—and to inspire other youth. The bottom line is our government is eager to get your input. So I'm asking you and all Canadians to join the conversation. You can participate online or find a session near you at Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada. We need your ideas, your insight and your advice. Together we will reshape the legislative landscape for Canadians with disabilities. Together we will make history!

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* See who presently supports Barrier Free Canada – Canada sans Barrières

You can join this illustrious group by visiting www.barrierfreecanada.org. Our five initial founding organizations are: CNIB, March of Dimes, the MS Society of Canada, the Canadian Hearing Society, and Accessible Media Inc. A list of our supporting organizations is listed below. The Low Vision Self-Help Association West Island, Montreal Quebec The Coalition of Persons with Disabilities - NL Guide Dog Users of Canada (GDUC) Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB) Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) SPH Planning & Consulting Limited The Rick Hansen Foundation Quebec Federation of the blind Communication Disabilities Access Canada (CDAC) Community Living Toronto Deaf Blind Ontario Services Unifor StopGap Foundation

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Citizens with Disabilities Ontario Spinal Cord Injury Alberta Easter seals canada Access for Sight-Impaired consumers Every Canadian Counts Coalition Québec Accessible Centre for Equitable Library Access / Centre d’accès équitable aux bibliothèques Deaf & Hear Alberta

• How to Contact Barrier-Free Canada – Canada sans Barrières We always like to hear from you. To contact us, please send an email to info@barrierfreecanada.org. To keep abreast of our updates visit http://www.barrierfreecanada.org/category/general Visit us at www.barrierfreecanada.org Follow us on Twitter @barrierfreeca And like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/barrierfreeca Donna Jodhan and David Lepofsky, Co-Chairs of Barrier-Free Canada – Canada sans Barrières

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