News Release From Citizenship Minister Cam Jackson dd March 22, 2001

THURSDAY, MARCH 22, 2001 -

News Release From Citizenship Minister Cam Jackson March 22, 2001

Attention News Editors:

Stronger guidelines for people with disabilities commended

TORONTO, March 22 /CNW/ - Today's release by the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) of its Policy and Guidelines on Disability and the Duty to Accommodate has been strongly commended by Citizenship Minister Cam Jackson.

"I am very encouraged to see this OHRC initiative that helps to clarify the rights of people with disabilities," said Minister Jackson. "The new policy challenges all sectors in Ontario to promote the full participation of people with disabilities, both in the workplace and in the community." The guidelines reflect the Commission's view of the current requirements under the Ontario Human Rights Code for employers, unions and others in the public and private sectors.

"The new policy and guidelines promote a proactive approach, particularly in comparison to the original version, released in 1989," said Jackson. "They highlight the importance of thinking about people with disabilities when programs and facilities are designed." "This is a call to all employers, private and public sector alike," he continued, "to work cooperatively to remove barriers and improve opportunities for people with disabilities. In addition, it is a significant step in helping employers understand their responsibilities to employees under the Code." "It is also further proof that the rights accorded to the people of Ontario under the Human Rights Code are respected and protected. The Human Rights Code is working," he said.

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03/22/2001

For further information:
Carolyn Chaplin, Minister's Office,
(416) 325-6200