No. H071/11
For release - August 12, 2011
OTTAWA — The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, today announced an update of the Intercity Bus Code of Practice that establishes standards for accessible intercity bus services for persons with disabilities. The update reflects the evolution of services offered to travellers with a disability since the original Code was issued in 1998.
"The Government of Canada is committed to creating a transportation system that is accessible to all Canadians," said Minister Lebel. "The updated Intercity Bus Code of Practice is a good example of what we can achieve when we partner with the private sector and consumers with disabilities to improve service."
Transport Canada played a leadership role in bringing about this update. The department facilitated discussions between consumer members of the Minister's Advisory Committee on Accessible Transportation and an intercity bus industry working group. The group was made up of the Canadian Bus Association, Motor Coach Canada, l'Association des propriétaires d'autobus du Québec, Greyhound Canada and Orléans Express.
New accessibility provisions have been added to the Code to include such services as:
- confirmation of reservations for accessible services;
- automated ticket dispensing machines;
- courtesy seating in terminals;
- relieving areas for service animals at bus terminals;
- carriage of mobility scooters as baggage;
- design loads for lifts and ramps;
- opportunities to board and disembark at flag stops;
- courtesy seating on buses;
- building standards for terminals; and
- website accessibility.
The Intercity Bus Code of Practice, which represents a commitment by the intercity bus industry, is available at www.tc.gc.ca/eng/policy/acc-accf-menu.htm.
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