Champions From Community And Business Will Guide Ontario To New Era Of Accessibility

TORONTO — The McGuinty government's commitment to accessibility is getting a big boost today with the appointment of CITY-TV veteran David Onley and community leader Tracy MacCharles to lead the province's new Accessibility Standards Advisory Council, Minister of Community and Social Services Sandra Pupatello announced today.

"Our new Accessibility Standards Advisory Council will be a guiding force as we work to make Ontario accessible," said Pupatello. "People with disabilities should be able to fully participate in the social and economic life of our province, and our Accessibility Standards Advisory Council will help make sure we do it right."

Onley, a veteran journalist with CITY-TV, advocate and educator on disability issues, will chair the council.  MacCharles, a human resources specialist and disability advocate, will be the vice-chair.

The Accessibility Standards Advisory Council will provide advice to help achieve an accessible society over the next 20 years. The council will advise the government on accessibility standards and on sector-specific and general public education programs to support and educate individuals, businesses and other organizations about accessibility and accessibility standards. 

"Accessibility is not just about equipment or architecture. It is fundamentally about attitude as well. We know that if a facility or business is made accessible it becomes easier to use for all people, young and old and whatever their physical status. I welcome this opportunity to help change Ontario for the better," said Onley.

 "It will take everyone's commitment – people with disabilities, businesses and government – to build a truly accessible province.  And we're going to do it because accessibility is good for our society, our economy and our future prosperity," said Pupatello. "This is part of our plan to strengthen our province by making sure Ontario benefits from the contribution of all its citizens."


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