Province seeks public feedback on accessible employment standard regulation

Manitoba is conducting a review of its Accessible Employment Standard Regulation, and the government is seeking input from the public.

The goal of the review is to remove and prevent barriers faced by workers with disabilities.

“It is crucial we ensure workplaces are fully accessible, as nearly one in three working-age Manitobans has a disability,” said Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, who is responsible for accessibility. “I encourage all Manitobans to share your perspectives with us as our government reviews the Accessible Employment Standard to identify ways we can remove barriers for Manitobans with disabilities at work.”

Earlier this year, Manitoba called on employers in the province to apply for funding for projects that will improve accessibility and remove barriers for those living with disabilities. The 2024-2025 Manitoba Accessibility Fund (MAF) will provide employers grants up to $50,000 for these projects.

Accessible Employment Standard review

Manitoba first enacted its Accessible Employment Standard on May 1, 2019, building on existing requirements of the Manitoba Human Rights Code.

The standard applies to paid employees who are full-time, part-time, apprentices and seasonal workers. It addresses practices relating to employee-employer relationships, including measures and policies related to recruitment, hiring and retention of employees. All organizations within Manitoba are obligated to comply with the requirements outlined under the standard.

The new engagement, launched on EngageMB, will inform the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to amend policies, remove barriers and improve accessibility within the workplace, the minister noted. Manitobans can provide feedback through the survey or sign up for virtual town hall sessions hosted by the Accessibility Advisory Council. 

They have until Nov. 1 to participate.

Each standard enacted under the Accessibility for Manitobans Act must be reviewed every five years to ensure standards continue to meet the needs of all Manitobans, according to the government. 

The government-appointed Accessibility Advisory Council will lead the review of the standard. The council has nine members with cross-sectional lived experiences.

“The council is excited to consult with Manitobans on the effectiveness of the Accessible Employment Standard,” said John Graham, chair, Accessibility Advisory Council. “Personal stories and unique perspectives on the standard are an important aspect of this review and will help the council identify any areas under the standard that may require attention.”

Recently, Canada’s justice minister has called on the country’s first accessibility commissioner to address the recommendations of a third-party report which looked into allegations of mistreatment of workers.