The NDP have released a plan that promises to advance the human rights of persons with disabilities and other equality seekers. A cornerstone of the plan is a Canadians with Disabilities Act that will remove systemic barriers faced by persons with disabilities. Despite promising an act nine years ago, the Conservatives failed to introduce one.

The NDP’s plan also includes the development of a national action plan to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the reinstatement of the Court Challenges Program. 

CUPE continues to make sure that work and workplaces are accessible, safe and healthy for everyone. Nearly 750,000 Canadians with disabilities say they could work if given the chance. The NDP plan addresses many of the issues we have raised.

The Court Challenges Program was abolished by Harper in 2006, and human rights defenders have long been calling for its reinstatement. The program provided much-needed funding for court cases advancing equality rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. 

Most Canadians at some time in their lives will experience either a permanent or temporary disability. Persons with disabilities face major barriers to employment and are much more likely than other Canadians to live in poverty.