The Government of Canada is delivering on its commitment to create a barrier-free Canada with the implementation of the Accessible Canada Act, which will help remove barriers, and increase access and opportunities for persons with disabilities.

“The publication of proposed regulations under the Accessible Canada Act is putting into action our commitment to create a barrier-free Canada. These regulations are important and will embed accessibility into the work that we do. The Government looks forward to receiving feedback and comments from the disability community, federally regulated entities, and all Canadians on the proposed regulations, as their voices and engagement are essential to the successful implementation of the Act. Together, we can achieve a fully inclusive and accessible Canada.”
– Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough

 

• The Accessible Canada Act came into force on July 11, 2019. It includes seven priority areas where federally regulated entities should focus their efforts to identify, remove and prevent barriers: the design and delivery of programs and services; employment; the built environment; information and communications technologies; the procurement of goods, services and facilities; communication; and transportation. 

• Federally regulated entities include:

  • Government of Canada’s departments and agencies 
  • Crown corporations, such as the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Canada Post and Via Rail
  • the Royal Canadian Mounted Police
  • the Canadian Forces
  • the federally regulated private sector
  • Parliament

• Transportation service providers include companies that operate planes, ferries, trains and buses that travel long distances, as well as terminals, such as airports, ferry terminals, train and bus stations, and ports where cruise ships dock.

• The Government of Canada has worked and will continue to work closely with disability organizations, stakeholders, the federally regulated private sector, federal government entities and Indigenous organizations to increase accessibility and build a more inclusive society – towards the realization of a barrier-free Canada by 2040.

• First Nations Band Councils have an additional five years to implement the proposed Accessible Canada Regulations. This additional time will allow for consultations and meaningful engagement with the Government of Canada.

• The Government of Canada remains committed to a disability inclusive approach during the pandemic and beyond. The proposed regulations support this commitment as expressed in the latest Speech from the Throne. The Government of Canada will develop the first-ever Disability Inclusion Action Plan, which includes a new Canadian Disability Benefit, improved processes for eligibility for federal disability programs and benefits, and a robust employment strategy for Canadians with disabilities.

Associated links

• Statement by Minister Qualtrough on the anniversary of the Accessible Canada Act
• Accessible Canada Regulations - Canada Gazette, Part I
• Accessible Transportation Planning and Reporting Regulations - Canada Gazette, Part I
• Backgrounder: Accessible Government

For media enquiries, please contact:

Marielle Hossack
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Carla Qualtrough
marielle.hossack@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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