Executive Summary
Introduction:
In December 2001, the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) was passed into law. Its purpose is to improve opportunities for people with disabilities and to provide for their involvement in the identification, removal and prevention of barriers to their full participation in the life of the province.
The Ministry of Consumer and Business Services' 2004-2005 Accessibility Plan outlines our commitment to improving accessibility and preventing and removing barriers to people with disabilities in Ontario. This report shows our dedication to the philosophy and spirit of the ODA and more broadly the concept of high-quality service to the people of Ontario.
Achievements of 2003-2004 Planning Commitments:
The ministry has responded to accessibility issues in a number of ways. The ministry has placed a great deal of effort into making its various channels - telephone services, counters and websites - available and accessible to all Ontarians and its employees, no matter what their abilities.
Through Publications Ontario, the ministry has taken a lead role in assisting clients who need access to documents in alternate formats.
To lead the ministry's efforts to improve accessibility for all Ontarians, the ministry hired a permanent ODA Coordinator. The ODA Coordinator also monitors the activities of the ministry to identify and assist in the solution of emerging issues.
As an employer, the ministry appreciates its diverse workforce and recognizes the accommodation needs of its employees with disabilities. As such, the ministry has accommodated the needs of its employees with disabilities through items, services, employment practices and training in the workplace.
Commitments and Strategies for 2004-2005:
Although much has been achieved, the ministry still has work to do. The ministry will take steps to ensure that proposals for new acts, regulations, policies, programs and services are assessed for their effect on people with disabilities, in order to prevent new barriers.
This year, the ministry will also review some of its key responsibilities and functions related to the quality of service for clients and the working environment of employees to determine their effect on people with disabilities.
The plan also outlines the specific measures the ministry will take over the next twelve months to identify, prevent and remove barriers and improve accessibility in areas such as communications, facilities and technology.
Conclusion:
We look forward to continuing to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, whether they are part of the general public or our own employees - so that they can access information where, when and how they want it.
FAQ