There are 1.9 million people in Ontario with disabilities. This number is expected to increase as the population ages because the incidence of disability increases with age.
The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) was given Royal Assent on December 13, 2001, and is considered to be Canada's most comprehensive legislation to improve access for people with disabilities.
The purpose of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) 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. To this end, the ODA mandates that each municipality prepare an annual accessibility plan.
The Municipality of West Perth has developed an Accessibility Plan, in conjunction with the County of Perth and other member municipalities. The plans outline the review and monitoring process, and method to which the plans will be communicated to the public.
The recent passage of the landmark Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 marks a new era of accessibility in Ontario. This legislation will make Ontario one of the world leaders in improving accessibility for people with disabilities.
To read more about this Act and how it is being implemented in Perth County:
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