Message from the York Region Accessibility Advisory Committee

It is with great pleasure that we present Accessing York: York Region's 2010 Accessibility Plan.

The York Region Accessibility Advisory Committee advises Regional Council on the implementation and effectiveness of annual accessibility plans. We are proud of the fact that Regional Council and staff have list ened and acted on our advice about making York Region's programs, services and policies more accessible. We look forward to advising Council on the implementation activities included in this year's plan.

We've seen great accessibility accomplishments within the Region under the requirements of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 and anticipate more progress as the accessibility standards are released under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA).

The York Region Accessibility Advisory Committee is a legislatively mandated committee that was first appointed by York Regional Council in 2003. The term of our current committee concludes in the fall of 2010. As we prepare to finish our term, we appreciate the opportunity to have served our community in such a meaningful and important way. A new committee will be appointed to continue to provide advice on these issues.

Whether it is with its current or new membership, this committee will continue to play a critical role in making York Region more accessible for people with disabilities. We look forward to successfully supporting the Region's efforts to make our communities accessible for all who live, work and visit here.