The Manitoba government is taking action to remove and prevent barriers as part of its review of the Accessible Employment Standard Regulation, Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, minister responsible for accessibility, announced Monday (July 15).
“It is crucial we ensure workplaces are fully accessible, as nearly one in three working-age Manitobans has a disability,” said Fontaine. “I encourage all Manitobans to share your perspectives with us as our government reviews the Accessible Employment Standard to identify ways we can remove barriers for Manitobans with disabilities at work.”
The Accessible Employment Standard was first enacted on May 1, 2019, and builds on existing requirements of the Manitoba Human Rights Code. The standard applies to paid employees who are full-time, part-time, apprentices and seasonal workers. It addresses practices relating to employee-employer relationships, including measures and policies related to recruitment, hiring and retention of employees. All organizations within Manitoba are obligated to comply with the requirements outlined under the standard.
Each standard enacted under the Accessibility for Manitobans Act must be reviewed every five years to ensure standards continue to meet the needs of all Manitobans. The government-appointed Accessibility Advisory Council will lead the review of the standard and is compromised of nine members with cross-sectional lived experiences.
“The council is excited to consult with Manitobans on the effectiveness of the Accessible Employment Standard,” said John Graham, chair, Accessibility Advisory Council. “Personal stories and unique perspectives on the standard are an important aspect of this review and will help the council identify any areas under the standard that may require attention.”
The new engagement, which launches today on EngageMB, will inform the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to amend policies, remove barriers and improve accessibility within the workplace, the minister noted. Manitobans can provide feedback through the survey or sign up for virtual town hall sessions hosted by the Accessibility Advisory Council.
To learn more about the Accessible Employment Standard or to review the requirements, visit: https://accessibilitymb.ca/accessibility/act-standards/the-accessibility-standard-for-employment.html.
The public consultation period is open until Nov. 1. To participate, visit https://engagemb.ca/accessible-employment.
