DEFINITION: Disabled Canada
Disabled Canada refers to individuals with disabilities living in Canada and the policies, programs, and services in place to support and empower them. It encompasses a wide range of physical, sensory, intellectual, or developmental disabilities that may affect a person’s mobility, communication, cognition, or daily activities.
FAQs:
1. What is the definition of a disability under Canadian law?
In Canada, the definition of a disability may vary depending on the legislation or program. However, the Canadian Human Rights Act defines a disability as “any previous or existing mental or physical disability that limits the individual’s ability to perform daily activities or fully participate in society.”
2. What initiatives does the Canadian government have for disabled individuals?
The Canadian government has implemented various initiatives to support disabled individuals, such as the Accessible Canada Act, which aims to create a barrier-free Canada, the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), and the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), among others.
3. Are employers in Canada required to accommodate disabled employees?
Yes, under the Canadian Human Rights Act, employers are obligated to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, unless it causes undue hardship to the employer.
4. What organizations in Canada provide support to disabled individuals?
There are several organizations in Canada dedicated to supporting disabled individuals, including March of Dimes Canada, Canadian Paraplegic Association, CNIB (formerly known as the Canadian National Institute for the Blind), and AbilityOnline, to name a few.
5. How accessible are public spaces and transportation in Canada for disabled individuals?
While there have been improvements, accessibility levels can vary across different provinces and territories in Canada. The Accessible Canada Act aims to address barriers in public spaces and transportation, ensuring equal access for all.
6. What rights do disabled students have in Canadian educational institutions?
Disabled students in Canada have the right to equal access to education, reasonable accommodations, and support services under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, provincial/territorial human rights codes, and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
7. Are there financial benefits available for disabled individuals in Canada?
Yes, there are various financial benefits and programs available for disabled individuals in Canada. Some examples include the Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefit (CPP-D), provincial/territorial disability benefits, and the aforementioned Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and Disability Tax Credit (DTC).