Landmark legislation that will remove barriers and improve accessibility for all Manitobans received Royal Assent on December 5, 2013, and became law.

“Nearly one in six Manitobans has a disability and this number is expected to increase, due in part to an aging population,” said Jennifer Howard, Finance Minister and Minister responsible for Persons with Disabilities. “This legislation will lay out a framework to guide the development and implementation of accessibility standards to improve the independence and social inclusion of Manitobans where they live, learn, work and play.”

The main goal of The Accessibility for Manitobans Act is to prevent barriers by working with the public and private sectors on long range plans. “Now that the legislation has become law, we will need to create a greater public awareness of the benefits of full accessibility by working with stakeholders and general public to change attitudes, policies and practices,” said Jim Derksen, chair, Manitoba Accessibility Advisory Council.

Under the legislation, accessibility standards will be developed to help eliminate physical, systemic and other barriers in such areas as building design, information services, transportation and employment practices. “We’re pleased to be able to take part in improving accessibility by providing input and advice,” said Lanny McInnes, prairie director, Retail Council of Canada. “Knowing what needs to be done will help retailers in Manitoba take concrete steps to improve accessibility for their customers.”