Physical and Attitudinal Barriers to Transportation Access for Disabled Persons

The Department of Transport will soon have a national policy in place on the transportation of disabled persons. At present, a discussion paper is circulating to carriers, provincial and municipals officials, service organizations and consumer groups for comment. With the feedback from this process, it is hoped that a realistic policy reflecting the needs and aspirations of disabled persons in Canada can be devised. In time, ways will be found to reduce the physical barriers. As more and more disabled persons take their place in schools, jobs, housing, recreation, and in the transportation system, the attitudinal barriers of fear and dislike will fall also. Whether the country can overcome the institutional barriers which divide the country remain to be seen. What is clear is that disabled persons have much to contribute to society and from them, the country has much to gain.