Government of Canada Boosts Investment in Accessible Infrastructure to Empower Canadians with Disabilities
Published: November 28, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario – The Government of Canada today announced an additional investment of $2.5 billion over five years to support the construction of accessible infrastructure projects across the country.
This investment builds on the Government’s commitment to ensure that all Canadians have access to inclusive and accessible communities. It will help to create barrier-free spaces that allow people with disabilities to fully participate in all aspects of society.
“Our government is committed to building an inclusive and accessible Canada for everyone,” said Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion. “This investment will help to create a more equitable and just society for Canadians with disabilities.”
The investment will support a wide range of accessible infrastructure projects, including:
- Retrofitting existing buildings to make them accessible
- Building new accessible social housing units
- Creating accessible public spaces, such as parks and sidewalks
The projects will be selected through a competitive application process. Applications will be evaluated based on their potential to improve accessibility for Canadians with disabilities, as well as their feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
The Government of Canada is working closely with provinces, territories, municipalities, and community organizations to ensure that this investment is used to make a real difference in the lives of Canadians with disabilities.
Quotes:
“This investment is a game-changer for people with disabilities,” said Robert Kok, President of the Canadian Association for Community Living. “It will help to create more inclusive communities where people with disabilities can fully participate.”
“This investment is a step in the right direction,” said Mia Harris, a disability rights advocate. “It shows that the Government of Canada is serious about creating an accessible Canada for all.”
Background:
The Government of Canada’s Accessible Canada Act came into force in 2019. The act sets out a number of requirements for federal organizations to make their programs and services accessible to people with disabilities.
The Government of Canada has also committed to investing in accessible infrastructure through its Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. This program provides funding for a wide range of infrastructure projects, including those that improve accessibility for Canadians with disabilities.
Media Contact:
Media Relations Office Employment and Social Development Canada 819-994-5559 media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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