Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
April 27, 2015

Investing in Inclusion

New Accessible Taxi Service Enhances Inclusion Efforts

Newfound Cabs has been awarded $50,000 under the Accessible Taxi Pilot Project to acquire two taxi vans which are accessible to persons with mobility disabilities. The vans were unveiled today during an event at the Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC) in St. John's, attended by the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities.

"These taxis are a perfect example of inclusion in action, because they can be accessed by all individuals, including people with mobility disabilities. Through this service, people who use mobility devices such as wheelchairs or scooters have the same opportunity as everyone else to call a cab at a moment's notice and go to work, grocery shopping, or out with friends for the evening. This is just the beginning. Our intent is to continue to encourage the creation of more accessible taxi services throughout the province."
- The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development and Minister Responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities.

A province-wide request for grant funding proposals was issued for the pilot project in February.

"I am proud to be the first taxi service provider to be a part of this pilot project. I have wanted to make my fleet accessible for a long time, and I am looking forward to serving my new customers. I hope this encourages other taxi services across the province to investigate the possibility of offering accessible services."
- Albert Newell, Owner, Newfound Cabs

In addition to passing required provincial inspections, the accessible taxis also meet Canadian Standards Association (CSA) requirements for retrofitting and securing systems for wheelchairs and scooters. Eight taxi drivers have learned to operate the accessible taxis with training provided by the Coalition of Persons with Disabilities, with support from the City of St. John's, GoBus Accessible Transit and MVT Canadian Bus.

"The new accessible taxi service will make a significant difference in people's lives. Transportation is a key to inclusion and now, with accessible taxis on the road, there are fewer barriers and more equitable access to opportunities."
- J. Paul Walsh, Chair, Provincial Advisory Council for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

The Accessible Taxi Pilot Project is part of the Provincial Government's ongoing commitment to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society, including the support of accessible and affordable transportation options.

"Being able to call an accessible taxi is a huge milestone for people with disabilities and it confirms that we are moving forward to greater inclusion. Now we will be able to have spontaneous outings with family and friends, take a pet to the veterinarian in an emergency, and have greater flexibility in planning our work days."
- Annette Powell, Consumer

The Provincial Government supports other initiatives designed to improve inclusive transportation options for citizens, including the Accessible Vehicle Program (www.swsd.gov.nl.ca/disabilities/index.html) and the Age-Friendly Newfoundland and Labrador Transportation Project (www.swsd.gov.nl.ca/grants/age_friendly_transport.html).

QUICK FACTS:

• Newfound Cabs has been awarded $50,000 under the Accessible Taxi Pilot Project to acquire two taxi vans which are accessible to persons with mobility disabilities.
• The vans were unveiled today during an event at the Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC) in St. John's.
• The taxi vans can be accessed by all individuals, including people with mobility disabilities.
• The Accessible Taxi Pilot Project was initiated as part of Access. Inclusion. Equality. A Provincial Strategy for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities.

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2015 04 27                             11:50 a.m.