The Premier’s Council on Disabilities has released New Brunswick’s Disability Action Plan: A Strategy for Full Inclusion of Persons with a Disability, outlining recommendations in areas including employment, education, housing and accessibility.
The multi-year plan builds on progress made since the council’s last plan was issued in 2020. The council developed the plan through a consultation process that included a provincial survey, a legislative lunch, one-on-one consultations and public meetings.
“While we have seen meaningful progress over the past several years, there is still much work ahead to ensure that all persons with a disability can fully participate in their communities,” said council chair Nick Taggart. “This new action plan is an important step toward achieving consistent, predictable and equitable access for all.”
Four decades of advocacy work
The council has been developing disability action plans and advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities for over four decades. It created New Brunswick’s first disability action plan in 1983 and has continued this work through successive strategies, public engagement and ongoing monitoring.
In recent years, the council has released annual status updates to track the government’s progress in implementing recommendations from action plans.
Accessibility legislation cited as major achievement
The council cites the passing of accessibility legislation as a major accomplishment resulting from its previous plan, as this was one of the group’s key recommendations.
“This action plan is grounded in the lived experiences of people with disabilities across the province,” said Christyne Allain, the council’s executive director. “We deeply appreciate the stories, feedback and recommendations shared with us. Their voices guided the development of this plan and strengthened its vision.”
Focus areas and accountability measures
The plan includes recommendations in areas such as employment, education, poverty, housing, disability supports, accessibility, transportation, recreation and wellness. The plan is intended to be flexible, innovative and responsive to the diverse needs of New Brunswickers, according to the council.
Taggart said the council will continue monitoring progress and releasing regular public updates to ensure transparency around the implementation of recommendations.
