COMPARING CANADIAN AND EUROPEAN APPROACHES TO TRANSPORTATION ACCESSIBILITY

Prepared by: Ann Frye Limited

May 26, 2015

ABSTRACT:

This research assesses the differences in approaches to accessibility legislation, policy and practices taken by Canada and the European Union. The author reviewed the existing legislative and regulatory frameworks, mechanisms for dispute resolution and complaint systems, and monitoring, compliance and enforcement approaches of Canada, then compared these with practices in the European Union. Both Canada and Europe have built their regulatory frameworks on human rights principles, although a number of differences in approach were identified in the report. The report assesses the strengths and weaknesses of Canada’s policies in each mode of transportation, and highlights several emerging trends which are common to both Canada and Europe (e.g. the large and growing number of senior travellers). The report also includes a summary of key messages taken from consultation meetings held in London and Brussels in early 2015 with various transportation agencies.