Intercity Bus Code of Practice
On 9 July 1998, David Collenette (federal Minister of Transportation) announced a new code governing inter-city bus accessibility. This voluntary program, running for 2 years, is seen by the Minister as an "initial step leading to government regulation." The code will not apply to municipal bus service but will apply to regional services such as GO Transit. It will come into effect on 1 October 1998.
It will: - require that people using wheelchairs board by means of a lift or ramp (no manual boarding);
- provide free transportation for attendants and service animals;
- provide for communications accessible to people with sensory disabilities;
and - require the carrier to transport mobility aids and to replace and/or repair damaged or lost mobility aids.
If travellers believe their rights under the Code have been violated, a complaint is to be filed. Complaints are to be resolved within 95 days.
Before travelling by inter-city or inter-provincial bus, travellers with disabilities should contact the bus company or Transport Canada for a free copy of the code. It describes the services the bus industry has committed itself to provide. It also lists the notice requirements travellers must give to ensure accommodation. A Complaint Guide, including a complaint form, is also available. Both are available in English, French, braille, on tape or diskette.
Contact
Transport Canada
Accessible Transportation Unit - ACCG
Place de Ville
Tower C, 26th Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5
800-665-6478
TTY 800-823-3823
fax 613-991-6422
Comments/Copy
Eric Norman, President
Council of Canadians with Disabilities
926 - 294 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 0B9
fax 204-942-4625
|
