Public comments invited on building accessibility

Government Services Minister Dianne Whalen announced today that she is inviting public comments on recommended changes to the Buildings Accessibility Act and Regulations.

The Buildings Accessibility Act and Regulations establishes the barrier-free design standards for public buildings to ensure they are accessible to those living with disabilities. An in-depth review of the act and its regulations has been undertaken to ensure the needs of people with disabilities in this province are being addressed.

The Buildings Accessibility Advisory Board did the review and has submitted its report to the department. The advisory board is comprised of representatives of the disabled community, the engineering profession and members of the public. Government is now seeking public input on the report and its recommendations.

"It�s essential that all barriers to buildings for people living with disabilities in this province are removed," Minister Whalen said. "We want to hear from a wide range of people to ensure the legislation and regulations meet the needs of people living with disabilities."

The building accessibility requirements in this province have not been reviewed since the mid-1990s. The review will ensure the act and regulations are relevant to those living with disabilities in the province today.

The board has recommended, among other things, an increase in the number of "blue zone" parking spaces and accessible hotel rooms, as well as an increase in the fines for non-compliance under the act.

The advisory committee�s report is available in PDF format on the department�s Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/gs/consultation. Comments may be e-mailed to consultation.gsl@gov.nl.ca or submitted in writing to the Buildings Accessibility Review, P.O. Box 8700, St. John's, NL, A1B 4J6. Comments will be accepted up to August 31, 2004.

Following the public consultation process, the minister will review all of the recommendations and submissions and report back to Cabinet. Changes to the act require the approval of the House of Assembly.

Media contact: Tracy Barron, Communications, (709) 729-4860 or 690-6157

2004 07 14                                      11:45 a.m.