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Accessibility

Call for applications to fill the positions of Accessibility Commissioner and Chief Accessibility Officer is open

Old man driving a mobility scooter wheelchair crossing the street on a zebra. Selective focus street in Richmond British Columbia Canada
Photo: Dreamstime

The Government of Canada is taking another major step towards the goal of creating a barrier-free Canada, by continuing to implement the historic Accessible Canada Act.

The Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, announced selection processes to fill two full-time Governor-in-Council (GIC) positions. Both appointees will work to prevent and remove barriers to accessibility and increase opportunities for persons with disabilities to contribute to their communities and workplaces.

The Accessibility Commissioner will lead a new accessibility unit within the Canadian Human Rights Commission. The Commissioner will provide leadership and direction for the administration and enforcement of the Accessible Canada Actand its regulations. They will also provide advice and information to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, on issues arising from the administration and enforcement of the Act.

The Chief Accessibility Officer will be a special adviser to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion on systemic or emerging accessibility issues. Working out of Employment and Social Development Canada, the Chief Accessibility Officer will be responsible for monitoring and reporting on the outcomes achieved by the Accessible Canada Act. 

The Government of Canada is committed to an open, transparent, and merit-based selection process. The government is also committed to filling GIC positions with highly qualified candidates who reflect Canada’s diversity. Preference may be given to applicants who are members of one or more of the following groups: women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of a visible minority group.

Interested individuals are strongly encouraged to apply by June 28, 2021, via the GIC Appointment Opportunities website.

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