The Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children Seniors and Social Development, and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities, today provided an update on the development and implementation of Accessibility Plans by public entities.
As per the Accessibility Act, public entities include Provincial Government departments; agencies, boards and commissions; provincial courts; public and private educational institutions; public school boards; the provincial health authority; and municipalities.
To date, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development has advised these public entities on the requirement to develop an Accessibility Plan within two years of the Accessibility Act becoming law. The deadline for initial Accessibility Plans is December 31, 2023.
Currently, an interdepartmental accessibility team is being identified to work on the development of one comprehensive Accessibility Plan for all Provincial Government departments.
The key steps to creating an Accessibility Plan are as follows:
- Develop a statement of commitment that outlines the commitment to improve accessibility;
- Identify accessibility goals including achievements to date and new goals;
- Set focus areas by consulting with stakeholders and aligning with the goals of the public body;
- Review focus areas to identify strengths, gaps and opportunities;
- Make it public for everyone to understand and have access to the plan; and
- Implement the plan and update it every three years.
Additionally, all other public entities are required to highlight goals and outcomes to improve accessibility within the respective public body.
To assist public entities in creating an Accessibility Plan, a detailed guide can be found here.
In addition, a virtual learning session is scheduled for public entities on June 15 at 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Public entities should register for this session by June 12 by calling toll-free 1-888-729-6279; texting 709-725-4463; or emailing CSSDGrantPrograms@gov.nl.ca. Video Relay Service calls are also welcome.
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“As a government, we remain committed to improving accessibility and inclusion for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. It is important that our government and other public entities lead by example and I look forward to the implementation of these Accessibility Plans. The plans will help to identify, prevent and remove barriers to inclusion so that persons with disabilities can fully participate in society.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities
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Learn more
Accessibility Act – Children, Seniors and Social Development
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