MESSENGER ADVERTISEMENT for November issue

The rights of persons with disabilities to equal treatment without discrimination in accordance with the Human Rights Code is addressed in a number of Ontario Statutes and regulations.

The Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 is an act to improve the identification, removal and prevention of barriers faced by persons with disabilities and to make related amendments to other Acts.

The Assessment Act provides for exemptions from property taxation where improvements, alterations or additions to existing homes or designated portions of new homes are made or built to accommodate persons with disabilities who would otherwise require care in an institution.

The Blind Persons' Right Act prohibits discrimination in services, accommodation, facilities or occupancy against blind persons using guide dogs and prohibits persons who are not blind from using white canes.

The Building Code Act, 1992 and the regulations made under it establish standards for the construction, renovation and change of use of buildings and structures, including standards related to the accessibility of buildings and structures for persons with disabilities.

As an incentive to encourage employers to hire persons with disabilities, the Corporation Tax Act allows employers an additional deduction for the costs of modifying buildings, structures and premises, acquiring certain equipment and providing special training in order to accommodate persons with disabilities in the workplace. The Income Tax Act provides similar credit to unincorporated employers.

The Education Act includes provisions to address the needs of students with disabilities who have been identified as "exceptional pupils". School Boards must provide special education programs and services to these students.

The Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997 provides a separate income and employment support program for eligible persons with disabilities. It removes persons with disabilities from the welfare system and provides them with assistance that recognizes their unique needs.

The Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997 provides loss of earnings, health care and labour market re-entry benefits for persons with work-related injuries and disabilities.

The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms also provides that persons with disabilities are equal before and under the law and have the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law.

For more information check out www.gov.on.ca