Reports

Activities Report

December 2007

• AEBC LOSES ANOTHER FINE ADVOCATE AND LONGTIME MEMBER

  It is with profound sadness that we announce that our former National Board member, Rick Oakes, passed away peacefully on December 4th, 2007 at the age of 56 years. He was a tireless advocate, loving husband and father, and a loyal friend to so many of us. For those of us who were fortunate enough to know Rick, we will miss him dearly as the Oakes family always opened their home up to friends and colleagues for a wonderful visit. Our thoughts are with his wife Chantal, their daughters, and his entire family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) care of Denise Sanders, 2895 Springfield Road, Kelowna, B.C. V1X 4M5. The donation will go toward setting up a scholarship fund in memory of Rick. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialkelowna.com (opens in a new window) .

• ATTENTION SUPPORTING MEMBERS: MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

  If you are currently a "Supporting" member, and you have not done so already, please contact us to confirm that you wish to remain a supporting member next year, and to verify that your contact information and format preferences are up-to-date. Supporting members who have not renewed in this fashion by March 1, 2008 will be removed from our database.

• 2008 MEMBERSHIP DUES

  Active members are reminded that they may pay their $5.00 membership dues for the 2008 calendar year any time now. If you are a member of a local chapter, please remit your dues to your chapter. If you are not a member of a local chapter, or cannot make it to a meeting, you may remit your dues to the national office directly. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.

  Regular membership dues may be paid by cash, cheque, money order, PayPal, or Interac e-mail money transfer (for those whose banks support this). Lifetime membership fees may also be paid by VISA or MasterCard. Please contact Anthony Tibbs (treasurer) for more information, by emailing tibbs@blindcanadians.ca .

• SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS FOR 2007

  On behalf of the Scholarship Committee of the AEBC, we would like to announce the following slate of scholarship award winners for the 2007 year. I am very excited to report that there are many extremely qualified candidates who submitted an application this year which is a true positive statement on the achievements of legally blind students in Canada at this time and bodes well in supporting the causes for which AEBC's mandate stands.

  I would like to acknowledge the hard work of this Committee namely Sara Bennett, Phil Wiseman, and Marcia Cummings.

  We have 4 scholarships to distribute this year thanks to the B.C. Campbell River Lions Club and B.C. Gaming.

  The following students have won scholarship awards as determined by the AEBC Scholarship Committee for the 2007-2008 Academic Year:

  1. The Campbell River Lions Club of British Columbia Scholarship: Ms. Christine Nieder
     "I would like to work within the post-secondary system as either a transition counselor, teacher in adult special education programs or work in a disability centre. I really love the college atmosphere and feel that I can make a significant contribution in helping students with disabilities to further their education.”
  2. The Business, Education and Technology Scholarship: Mr. Chima Andrew Akomas
     Chima is working towards a Degree in Business, and wants to be a consultant, manager or administrator.
  3. The Alan H. Neville Memorial Scholarship: Ms. Natalie Martiniello
     "I am currently in my first year at McGill University, pursuing my BA Honours undergraduate degree in Sociology, with a minor in Educational Psychology. Afterwards, I would like to obtain a Masters degree in Rehabilitation Teaching from the University of Montreal. My ultimate goal and dream is to be able to inspire other blind or partially sighted children to follow their own dreams, and to make their own ambitions a reality"
  4. The AEBC National Achievement Scholarship: Ms. Deborah Adams
     Overcoming the loss of sight in the midst of a successful military career, Ms. Adams turns her focus to education.

  Congratulations to all our winners and applicants for all their hard work!

  Richard Quan, Chair

• AEBC’S National Secretary Presents at International Conference on Walking

  Marcia Cummings was pleased to be able to present a paper on the barriers to walking for blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted pedestrians at the eighth annual Walk21 Conference, “Putting Pedestrians First", held from October 1 to 4 in Toronto. The conference featured plenary sessions, walkshops and workshops on everything to do with the pedestrian way of life. The keynote speaker was David Suzuki, who spoke about the serious issues facing our planet, and how we are all one organism, each of us affecting everyone else indirectly by what we do and how we live. To read Marcia’s paper, entitled “A Walk on the Wild Side”, go to http://www.blindcanadians.ca/press_releases//index.php?BriefID=44 (opens in a new window)

• Robin East Represents AEBC at the IELA Stakeholder Kick-Off Meeting held on Oct. 26, 2007

  Context and Purpose of this Meeting

  On October 2, 2007, Library and Archives Canada announced the Initiative for Equitable Library Access (IELA), a $3 million, three year initiative, designed to improve access to information and to develop a strategy that will support equitable library service for Canadians with print disabilities. To launch this initiative, LAC invited stakeholders representing Canadians with print disabilities, the library community, the publishing community and the multiple format production community for a "kick-off" consultation. The objectives of this first consultation were articulated as follows:
  - To develop a shared understanding of the Initiative for Equitable Library Access and of equitable library service.
  - To consult stakeholders on how best to coordinate the collaborative effort to get there and the next steps to deliver on this common understanding.

  The agenda for the meeting, held in Ottawa, was as follows:

  1. Opening and introductions
  2. Overview of the Initiative
  3. Developing a common vision of equitable library access (Small group work followed by interactive plenary session to identify what an equitable library service could be and what it would look like if it were successfully achieved.)
  4. How do we get there? Making the collaborative process successful (Small group work followed by interactive plenary discussion on how to engage/consult partners in a meaningful way on the three key activities of IELA, i.e., the development of standards, the electronic clearinghouse and the Internet portal.)
  5. Closing Remarks
  6. Adjournment

  The following groups were invited to the meeting:

  • Canadian Library Association (CLA)
  • Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC)
  • Association pour l'avancement des sciences et des techniques de la documentation (ASTED)
  • BC College and Institute Library Services (CILS)
  • Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec (BAnQ)
  • Canadian Association of Educational Resource Centres for Alternate Formats (CAER)
  • Canadian Council of the Blind (CCB)
  • Canadian Publishers' Council (CPC)
  • Canadian Urban Libraries Council (CULC)
  • CNIB/INCA
  • Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD)
  • Le Regroupement des aveugles et amplyopes du Québec (RAAQ)
  • Learning Disabilities Association of Canada (LDAC)
  • Learning Disabilities Association of Québec (LDAQ)
  • Multiple Format Industry Association (MFIA)
  • National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS)
  • Provincial Territorial Public Library Council (PTPLC)
  • Quebec Foundation for the Blind

  I was one of eleven representatives in attendance. The minutes of the meeting will be sent to each of us and we will post these minutes to our web site: www.blindcanadians.ca (opens in a new window) .

  I, as President, have committed AEBC to full participation over the next three years. In fact AEBC was the only organization able to do this. It is my hope that at our AGM in May 2008 we will have a Sunday morning session dedicated to this subject and have an opportunity to review the portal or site that will be the focus of the library service Strategy. Those in attendance will be able to comment freely and, in fact, will be the first focus group to assist in giving direction to this exciting strategic initiative.

  Lastly, I want AEBC members to be aware that I made a distinction between Rights Holders and Stakeholders at this meeting. We, who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted, are rights Holders. We do hold the right as every citizen does to have full access to public libraries and we should not have to rely on charities to deliver such a public service. Stakeholders are other interested parties that have an interest in the outcome, e.g.: Service organizations and Publishers. However, our rights do come first and as such our voice must have more impact on the outcome.

  Robin east
  President

• ARCH DISABILITY LAW CENTRE UPDATES

  On October 18, 2007, Arch Disability Law Centre held its Annual General Meeting where, among other things, they bid farewell to Phyllis Gordon, who will retire as Executive Director at the beginning of 2008, to be replaced by Ivana Petricone. She has been a lawyer for many years and is a highly regarded leader within the community clinic system of Ontario. She has been the Executive Director at Rexdale Community Legal Clinic since 1992, where she was also a staff lawyer and the Director of Legal Services.

  Elections were also held for the Board of Directors, and the 2007-2008 Board consists of the following people:

  • Monica Ackermann, Member-at-large
  • John Feld, Transportation Action Now
  • Effie Prattas, Member-at-large
  • Bonnie Quesnel, The Independent Living Centre London and Area
  • Peter Wells, Member-at-large
  • Manjusri Welikala, BALANCE
  • Katherine Brooks, Coalition for Inclusive Education
  • Marcia Cummings, Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians
  • Gary Malkowski, Canadian Hearing Society
  • Ann Martindale, Epilepsy Ontario
  • Geoffrey Reaume, Psychiatric Survivor Archives, Toronto
  • Sharon Twilley, Member-at-Large
  • Jihan Abbas, Member-at-Large

  Marcia Cummings, AEBC’s National Secretary, is once again Secretary of the Arch Board. However, she has contributed to Arch’s work in other ways, namely in assisting with ongoing work on telecommunications issues. She will be meeting with the new Telecom Complaints Commissioner to assist in making the new process for lodging complaints in the telecom sector more accessible.

  This year the Board undertook the task of strategic planning, and the next three years will see Arch staff and Board focus on achieving the following broad goals:

  • To increase access to justice for persons with disabilities in Ontario through our summary advice and referral, law reform, test case litigation, public legal education, continuing legal education and community development activities.
  • To achieve substantive and positive change for persons with disabilities by further focusing and integrating all our program areas and resources.

  For more information on Arch’s work, visit their new web site, also launched at the AGM, at http://www.archdisabilitylaw.ca (opens in a new window) .

• AEBC PARTICIPATES IN END EXCLUSION

  When the National Action Plan focusing on Building an Inclusive and Accessible Canada, was presented at the Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill on Thursday, November 22, 2007, each supporting national organization had up to two minutes to express its endorsement and indicate its top priority. John Rae described AEBC’s priorities as follows:

  The Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians is pleased to join in solidarity to support the Declaration.

  Our priority is achieving the elusive goal set out way back during the International year of the Disabled Person 1981, namely, Full participation and equality." For our community this would include participating in a meaningful way in the development of all policies and programs that affect our lives: being able to vote independently and in secret like all other electors through an electronic option, having access to a publicly funded assistive devices program in every province and territory across Canada, being able to travel throughout our communities safe from the dangers of the quiet hybrid automobile, and seeing the implementation of a National Economic Strategy that would address the historic and chronic levels of marginalization, poverty and unemployment that remain the reality for so many Canadians who have a disability.

  To read the Action Plan and other supporting information, visit http://www.endexclusion.ca (opens in a new window) .

• AEBC PARTICIPATES IN CCD NATIONAL COUNCIL MEETING

  Again this year, CCD held its National Council meeting to coincide with End Exclusion in Ottawa. The meeting began with an extensive review of the event's activities, which were deemed successful, especially given the participation this year of some federal cabinet Ministers, and it is hoped to organize another event next year if resources permit.

  Much of the Council Meeting focused on informing Council members on several new initiatives, the Mental Health Commission of Canada with feedback from the National Network on Mental Health; how can Canadian NGOs use international human rights instruments such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities to enhance our work in Canada; Mines Action Canada's work to stop Cluster Bombs; and the Initiative for Equitable Library Access.

  Elections for CCD's National Executive are scheduled at the next meeting in June, and a four-person Nominating Committee was appointed. Marie White is completing her third two-year term as CCD Chair, and a new Chair is expected to be elected at the June meeting.

• ASSISTIVE DEVICES PROGRAM IN BC – UPDATE

  With the wrapping up of the Low Tech Assistive Devices Program in BC at the end of this year, the next step towards a comprehensive ADP for all PWD in British Columbia will be one virtual and four physical demonstration Personal Support Centres slated to be off the ground as early as April 1 2008. These will be located in Victoria, Cranbrook, Prince George and the fourth is still to be determined. All the centres will be fully accessible, have peer Navigators and information on devices in multiple formats and facilitate assessment and trialing. They will reflect the needs of the disabled community in which they are situated. To begin with program participants will be Ministry of employment and Income assistance (MEIA) clients. MEIA is looking for funding for seniors and others who fall through the cracks. There will be a local community implementation group in each community to ensure the Participation Model’s vision, values and principles are central to the running of the program/centre. AEBC will have representatives on each of these implementation groups.

• POVERTY COMMITTEE AND WORK UPDATE FROM MIKE YALE

  John Rae and I took part in an antipoverty conference in Toronto, November 15-16. The conference, Speaking Out on ODSP, (Ontario disability support program), was the latest action by the ODSP Action Coalition. The Coalition consists of social justice advocates, legal clinic staff working in the antipoverty field, and recipients of disability benefits.

  The November conference was specifically aimed at recipients who have been traditionally passive and intimidated. Workshops and plenary sessions were aimed at teaching individuals to speak up, learn how to effectively tell their own stories in their own communities across Ontario, and learn how to utilize the various local media.

  The Coalition has succeeded to the extent that the recently elected majority Liberal government in Ontario has finally agreed to develop a comprehensive poverty reduction strategy. We now are trying to influence the content of such a new and critical strategy.

  The major demands of the Coalition and its allies relate to: an immediate and meaningful increase to ODSP and Welfare rates; future benefit rates linked to the cost of living or inflation rate; those fighting to increase the minimum wage; others working on fixing the child benefit credit system, others involved in promoting more affordable housing, and many others. I am presently serving as vice-chair of the Media and Lobbying Committee, which has spent the last year working on the election campaign.

  As far as the AEBC antipoverty committee, we have not been active as a committee since the May Conference in Victoria. Individuals have been involved in their own communities or provinces, as you have heard above. But we need to reevaluate our role for 2008, and that hopefully will come about through a conference call prior to Christmas.

• FROM THE CHAPTERS

  Winnipeg:

  In October the Winnipeg Chapter invited Catherine Caldwell, Manager and Dan Roberts, Supervisor of Handi Transit to attend a meeting at the Millennium Library to explain the reasoning behind their new application form. An invitation to attend this meeting was also extended to other disability groups, CNIB clients and representatives, and Handi Transit clients. Following their presentation, Catherine Caldwell and Dan Roberts answered questions and clarified how this new form would impact Handi Transit clients.

  In early November, Ross Eadie and Christine Ross attended the 3-day Manitoba Libraries conference in Brandon. Both were very enthusiastic about the workshops they attended and their opportunity to dialogue with librarians on an individual basis. AEBC was the only disability group to be represented at this conference, allowing us to make a substantial contribution towards the future direction of library services and accessibility issues.

  On November 10 we held an election to replace Ruth Hogue on our Chapter Executive. Deanna Ng, a student at the University of Winnipeg accepted the nomination. She will join the Executive team which functions on a rotating chair basis, effective January 1st 2008.

  On November 17 we hosted a Bud, Spud & Steak at a downtown hotel. Despite the fact that the Festival of Lights parade caused road closures, detours and bus re-routes, we had an impressive turnout and a very successful fundraiser, raising over $2800.

  Montreal:

  The Greater Montreal Chapter had an excellent attendance for their fall meeting in October. Membership dues were collected for 2008. Paulo Monteagudo was re-elected as vice president and our faithful treasurer Ezra Chitayat was re-elected. Robert Trudel was elected to the executive committee as our member at large. Fifteen members braved the first snowfall of the year in November to enjoy a social outing at Montreal's unique Onoir Restaurant where everyone eats in total darkness. As the saying goes, a good time was had by all. The occasion was also used to promote AEBC with the owner of the restaurant and his staff.

  Central Okanagan:

  Elections were held on October 27, and Denise Sanders was elected Treasurer. All other Executive positions remained the same. The Chapter participated in a fund-raiser/public awareness event at Wal-Mart. Lisa Neufeld has joined the ACCESS AWARENESS TEAM, Which deals with access issues in Kelowna. The Chapter held their Christmas party on December 6, with a loonie auction to help raise funds. They collect a loonie from members that attend each meeting. At the November chapter meeting some new people joined.

  Edmonton:

  Marc Workman and Monika Penner manned an information booth and presented at the ASVI Conference, which went well. This was a great opportunity to get the word out about the AEBC, and talk about the importance of self-advocacy. Ikechukwu Okoro was elected Treasurer at the November meeting as Sonia Gupta had tendered her resignation. The Mayor responded to the AEBC National Board's letter regarding audible bus stops. He is putting together a working group regarding transit accessibility. Marc Workman will seek membership in this group as the Edmonton Chapter's representative.

  Toronto:

  The concert with Holmes Hooke and Tanglefoot, along with the silent auction consisting of over 35 items, was a resounding success! The music, poetry and camaraderie combined to produce a very enjoyable evening. Thank you to Lynda Spinney and David Swiderski for pouring their hearts into the auction, and to the staff at Hugh’s Room for providing a wonderful venue. Initial calculations suggest the Chapter will have netted approximately $3000 from the event. To top it all off, Tanglefoot was named Best Vocal Group at the 2007 Canadian Folk Music Awards in Gatineau, Quebec, two days later, and Marcia Cummings, Toronto’s Secretary, was there to congratulate the band and bask in their glory. Elections for Vice-President and Director at Large were held on December 8, and Richard Quan is now the Vice-President, while Phil Wiseman is Director at Large.

• ,

  CORRESPONDENCE

  Our members have been busy in the past three months, sending letters to various government officials, media types and others. Please read their letters, with responses when available, below.

  Huntsville Forester, Wednesday, September 26th, 2007

  More than 232,000 Ontarians with disabilities have incomes of less than $1000 each month from their disability pensions. I have noted with interest that out of the 26 billion dollars worth of campaign promises made by the present Ontario government, not one dollar is applied to help raise recipients out of the mire of poverty in which so many attempt to survive. Such poverty leads to isolation, ill-health and hopelessness for many.

  Did you know that if a disability pension recipient is lucky enough to find work, 50 percent of that person's wage is deducted from the next benefits cheque? While called an incentive, such a scheme is clearly a disincentive and a dignity-reducer. Why are the disabled singled out and punished by such a ludicrous strategy?

  I demand that all candidates commit themselves to introducing a comprehensive poverty reduction strategy, based on the following key points:

  1) ODSP and OW rates need to be raised to provide for the real costs of living. Despite the cost-of-living adjustments that have been made in the last few years, income support levels under ODSP have not recovered from the 12 years of decline in real purchasing power that occurred from 1993 to 2005. During this period the value of ODSP monthly income dropped by 18%. The value of OW rates dropped more than 43%. Even with the latest increase, which recipients will only get at the end of 2007, people on social assistance will still not be able to afford safe housing or eat healthy foods.

  Social assistance rates should reflect average market rents (as determined by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation); the average cost of a nutritious food basket (as determined by municipal boards of health); and other basic needs such as utilities, transportation, telephone, personal hygiene, etc. The rates should also be adjusted annually to inflation.

  2) An Independent Commission should be established to make recommendations for setting social assistance rates. ODSP and OW rates are not currently based on rationale criteria such as the above measures, which would tie rates to the actual costs of living for individuals and families in need. With growing evidence of the long-term costs of poverty, experts - not politicians - should develop objective measures for determining social assistance rates. When the provincial government decided to raise MPPs' salaries, they relied on the recommendations of an independent review to determine the amount of the raise. There should be a similar process that is independent of government to recommend the appropriate criteria for determining social assistance levels.

  The provincial government should establish an independent committee to develop rational criteria for determining the rates for OW and ODSP, based on the real costs of living, and commit to implementing the recommendations. This committee should include representation from recipients, disability and anti-poverty groups, and other stakeholders.

  3) Low-income families need to get the full amount of the new Ontario Child Benefit more quickly, rather than getting only gradual increases over the next five years.

  The new Ontario Child Benefit is scheduled to be implemented in July 2008 and is to increase gradually from $50/month/child to $90/month/child by 2011. $2.1 billion will be invested in the Ontario Child Benefit in the first five years, helping almost 1.3 million children annually, including children on OW and ODSP.

  Families on OW and ODSP are struggling just to meet their basic needs. A single parent with one child on ODSP receives only $685 for shelter, while the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment in Ontario was $1153 in 2006. A single parent on OW receives even less - $538. No one should have to choose between paying the rent and feeding the kids.

  Families working for low wages and those struggling on ODSP and OW need the full $90/month/child now, not in 2011.

  4) Accessibility of ODSP must be improved. The Ministry of Community and Social Services is responsible for the delivery of ODSP. This is the same Ministry that introduced the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA, 2005) as a tool for achieving accessibility for all Ontarians with disabilities.

  The experience of many persons with disabilities who have applied for benefits under ODSP or who are currently in receipt of ODSP benefits is that, despite the AODA, the ODSP is a program that is not fully accessible. ODSP applicants and recipients report experiencing many barriers to access in applying to the program, in receiving all the benefits that are available to them and in receiving employment supports.

  The provincial government needs to undertake a thorough accessibility audit of the entire ODSP system as well as an audit of each individual office, including both income support and employment support. The audit must include consultation with stakeholders, including recipients, and should result in a comprehensive accommodations plan for ODSP service delivery.

  Examples of some of the barriers the audit should consider would be:

  a) Are there policies or procedures that prevent someone with a disability from applying for benefits (such as requiring applicants to use the telephone to make an initial appointment, which excludes people who have no phone or have difficulty using one)?
  b) Do caseworkers have a good enough understanding of the various disabilities of recipients to be able to provide any necessary accommodations?
  c) Are there any eligibility requirements that tend to screen out people (such as requiring people to have large numbers of documents returned within a short time period)?
  d) Does the language or format used in forms and letters make them inaccessible to some people with disabilities?

  If Ontario is truly the province of prosperity and opportunity, as we are repeatedly told, then it is time to bring people with disabilities into the economic mainstream. All of us will have to deal with disability eventually, either experiencing disability ourselves as we grow older, or with a member of our families. It is beyond time that we share our vast resources with the thousands who are marginalized by being forced to live in chronic poverty.

  Michael Yale
  * * * * *

  The following was sent to various media on December 4, 2007:

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

  AEBC CALLS FOR INCREASED RIGHTS FOR BLIND CANADIANS

  On the anniversary of International Human Rights Day on December 10, the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians calls for increased rights for all Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted.

  This year, all Canadians with disabilities celebrated Canada's signing of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. "But Canada must do more, both here at home, and abroad, to assist persons with disabilities," said Robin East, President of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians. “We look forward to Canada ratifying and implementing the Convention’s provisions,” adds East.

  "The most important act a citizen in any democracy performs is to vote independently and in secret. We want that same right," adds East. This means developing alternative methods of voting so that we can also verify how we voted. "

  Safe travel on our streets is another priority of the AEBC. "We fully support measures to help protect our environment, but the quiet hybrid automobile is threatening our safety, as it is too quiet for us to hear oncoming cars.”

  
  The AEBC is also active in fighting poverty. "Despite advances in technology which were supposed to help level the playing field, our community still confronts unacceptably high levels of unemployment and poverty.” This is why the AEBC calls on all levels of government to work together to develop a national Economic Strategy that will address both income and labour market inequities.

  For further information on the AEBC, visit our website: www.blindcanadians.ca (opens in a new window)

  Contact:
  Robin East,
  President

  * * * *

  The following letter of support was sent on September 25, 2007:

  THALIDOMIDE VICTIMS ASSOCIATION OF CANADA (TVAC)
  Attention Mrs. Mercédes Benegbi, Executive director

  Subject: LETTER OF SUPPORT regarding TVAC’s position: “THALIDOMIDE – THE DRUG THAT REQUIRES EXCLUSIVE CONTROLS” A generic of Thalidomide… Why duplicate such a DANGER to unborn children?

  Dear Sir or Madam,

  After reading the above-mentioned document prepared by the Thalidomide Victims Association of Canada (TVAC) and intended for the Food and Drug Administration – (FDA USA), the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians would like to declare its support for TVAC’s position.

  We support and stress the important involvement of TVAC, which, through the unique expertise of its members (survivors of the Thalidomide tragedy), is trying to raise the awareness of the North-American population on the absolute vigilance required at the time of the marketing and development of any teratogenic medication, especially that of Thalidomide.

  Nothing could justify that preventable and unnecessary risks be perpetrated again with regards to the use of Thalidomide in North America.

  We stand by and sympathize with the message of rigour and vigilance supported by TVAC in regards to the use of Thalidomide and this, in the interest of unborn children and future generations. We support TVAC’s recommendations in its important educational and awareness mission.

  In all solidarity with TVAC’s position!

  Sincerely,
  Robin East, National President
  Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians

  THALIDOMIDE: The drug that requires exclusive controls. The advent of a generic of Thalidomide, a drug historically notorious for its horrifying teratogenic effects (one single tablet can cause major birth defects), in multiplying the drug’s manufacture and distribution, would cripple its present restrictive distribution system, S.T.E.P.S. (System for Thalidomide Education and Safety). This unprecedented distribution program was incorporated as an integral part of the July 16th, 1998 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorization allowing the remarketing of Thalidomide in the United States.

  Since that time, no infant victim of Thalidomide has been reported in the United States; that being so, the 1998 FDA authorized distribution controls on this drug must be maintained in their entirety. We are of the firm opinion that replicating this loaded, teratogenic weapon could give rise to a second generation of Thalidomide victims in North America. While awaiting the discovery of a Thalidomide analogue without its teratogenic effects, TVAC feels that Thalidomide must remain a last-resort medication that demands exclusive distribution controls to prevent, as best as is humanly possible today, exposure of a single foetus.

  Thalidomide must however, for now and until the advent of an analogue without its catastrophic effects, remain accessible to any individual whose health status requires its specific use. For that reason, any responsible government, in co-operation with the drug manufacturer, must offer the necessary financial assistance to ensure equitable access to it.
  If, however, the American government chooses to run the risk of approving a generic of Thalidomide, TVAC demands that the same tight distribution controls be applied as are now in force for "Thalomid". TVAC also wants to be again consulted on the distribution controls to help ensure zero-tolerance for Thalidomide fetal exposure. Last but not least, the American government must publicly assume responsibility for any and all possible consequences associated with the distribution of Thalidomide.
  The FDA must remember that its highest duty is to minimize risks associated with drug use and to protect the health of its citizens and unborn children. It is your duty that we are reminding you of – no more and no less!

  * * * * *

  The following letter was sent on September 12, 2007:

  Traci Walters, National Director
  Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres

  Dear Ms. Walters,

  This letter of support for CAILC’s, "Maximizing our Impacts: Sharing Virtual Innovation Among Disability Organizations in the Voluntary Sector" is written on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) and its 11 Chapters across Canada. AEBC’s blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted members live in small and large Canadian Cities, Towns and Villages with several over-lapping issues, such as access to information, training and support services, and it is AEBC’s belief that this virtual project will fill many of the existing gaps for our population no matter their address or Postal Code.

  The portlet that will be created out of this one-year project will be a great and efficient way for national disability groups to share innovative resources and tools with members of the CAILC national network of Independent Living Resource Centres. It will also allow for mutual sharing of information, it will provide opportunities to share important announcements and to post pertinent information while communicating in real time in a virtual world.

  The Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians is in full support of this project, and in our role as a consultative body around issues of vision related disabilities. We very much look forward to participating with the other four National Disability organizations on the Advisory Committee, and we also look forward to participating in the “Think Tank” that will be arranged. AEBC believes these participation methods to be valuable venues through which to further discuss how the portlet will be designed, and to determine what tools will eventually be placed in the hands of those who need them in order to maximize their employment potential.

  In closing, please accept our appreciation for having the foresight required to develop this project, and for recognizing the tremendous expertise AEBC members and staff will bring to the process. Should you desire additional information about our services and programs, please do not hesitate to contact Albert Ruel, National Equality Director at 1-800-561-4774 or aruel@blindcanadians.ca .

  Sincerely,

  Robin East, President
  AEBC National Board of Directors

  CC.
  Albert Ruel, AEBC National Equality Director
  Laurie Beachell, CCD National Coordinator

  * * * * *

  The following letter was sent in response to a contract for employment services’ being awarded, without public tender, to CNIB in British Columbia, on October 25, 2007:

  Mark Creighton
  Director, Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance

  RE: NOI EPM0708001 – Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities

  Dear Mr. Creighton:

  I am writing to you on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) to voice objections on the above-named Notice of Intention to Contract.

  The Notice asserts that CNIB is "uniquely qualified to provide these services". The AEBC believes that other organizations in British Columbia may have the capacity and may be interested in providing these employment services; for example, the network of independent living centres in B.C., the On-Sight Independent Training Centre, Neil Squire Foundation, the Canadian Federation of the Blind, and the AEBC itself.

  Had this opportunity been openly tendered, these and other organizations in B.C. may have submitted a bid to deliver these proposed services.

  The AEBC believes that government should play a greater role in the provision of services to persons who are blind, deaf blind and partially sighted. This Notice confirms that the government of B.C. has failed to consider other models for delivering these employment services, including providing them directly within existing, mainstream employment programs.

  We urge the government of B.C. to review its approach to delivering services for B.C. residents who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted. The AEBC would welcome the opportunity to participate in such a review.

  Sincerely,

  Robin East, President
  Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians

  * * * * *

  The following letter was received by Robin East on September 18, 2007, from Jim Sanders:

  Dear Robin,

  I wish to acknowledge with appreciation, our meeting yesterday. Apart from making direct acquaintance with you for the first time and the opportunity to share preliminary thoughts and ideas with members of your new Board, Bill McKeown, Cathy Moore and I considered our time together as a positive first step in determining how to best use the resources of our two Organizations to the betterment of individuals in Canada living with vision loss.

  We will review the AEBC web site listing of priorities. We welcome collaboration on AEBC initiated advocacy efforts and will keep AEBC apprised of CNIB initiatives in which your members may be interested and in which AEBC can choose to become involved.

  Best regards,

  Jim
  * * * * *

  
  Robin East’s October 3, 2007 letter to Jim Sanders:

  Dear Mr. Sanders:

  On behalf of the AEBC, I believe we had a useful exchange of ideas and information during our September 17 discussion. From our perspective, the two most important areas discussed were advocacy and the provision of library services.

  Advocacy:
  As expressed during our meeting, the AEBC believes that advocacy on policy and program development must always be led by consumer organizations. I was pleased with your statement that CNIB will either play a supportive role or remain silent.

  I hope CNIB will refer those who are seeking the views and input from the blind community to the AEBC.

  Library Services:

  During our meeting, we agreed that publishers need to play a much greater part in selling books directly to blind consumers. The AEBC will be reviewing the reports from the CLA, and would appreciate your support in gaining participation in discussions with publishers.

  I trust this reflects the understandings regarding advocacy and library services between our two organizations. Thanks again for organizing a most enjoyable evening.

  Sincerely,

  Robin East
  President
  CC: AEBC Board, Bill McKeown, Cathy Moore

  * * * * *

  The following is Bill McKeown’s letter to Robin East on November 8, 2007:

  Dear Robin:

  Please thank Marcia for a comprehensive summary of our meeting of September 11, 2007. I believe the meeting allowed both groups to begin to lay our cards upon the table in the areas of advocacy.

  I appreciate your clear statement Robin, that it is the wish of AEBC that CNIB either support the advocacy efforts of AEBC or remain silent. After reviewing the six resolutions of your 2007 annual meeting, I see many opportunities to discuss areas in which CNIB could support AEBC initiatives.
  Let me list a couple of examples:

  Service animal definitions, CNIB could circulate this resolution to our service people at any time. CNIB would support the broad definition of service dogs, and a specific definition of guide dogs.

  Election accessibility, although we would need to hear the specifics of what AEBC is proposing, it is unlikely CNIB would object to any initiative that improved independent access to voting for people who are blind.

  Alternate Service models. This may seem like a contentious issue between AEBC and CNIB but, for example, in the area of the provision of alternate format library material, CNIB is committed to working with all levels of government and the public library sector to have this service delivered through the mainstream public library system.

  Neither the AEBC nor CNIB can address all the issues and obstacles that people who are blind face in Canadian society.

  One need only look at the issue of poverty and the advocacy areas listed in your resolution 2007-09 to see the need for more resources to be put towards advocacy. It seems to me there must be common ground between CNIB and AEBC in areas of advocacy. There is no need for either organization to compromise its separate identity in order to agree on one or two common public statements.

  We would be pleased to discuss the potential for common advocacy messaging should your board decide this would be of benefit to people who are blind.
  We believe complementary and unified messaging adds value to the advocacy efforts of each organization and there is great opportunity for collaboration. However, CNIB would not be interested in further discussions about what we can't do in the areas of advocacy. Given the current rates of poverty, unemployment and isolation among people who are blind, it would be unthinkable to remain silent on these issues.

  Sincerely,

  Bill McKeown
  Vice President
  Government Relations and Business Enterprise
  Cc: Jim Sanders, President and CEO, CNIB
  Cathy Moore, Director, Consumer and Government Relations, CNIB
  Marcia Cummings, National and Toronto Chapter Secretary, AEBC

  * * * * *

  
  Robin East sent the following letter to Jim Sanders on November 21, 2007

  Mr. Jim Sanders
  President and CEO, CNIB

  Dear Mr. Sanders:

  I am writing to you in response to Bill McKeown's letter of November 8, 2007, To seek clarification on some issues raised in his letter.

  1. Advocacy:

  AEBC Secretary Marcia Cummings' notes from our joint meeting of September 17, 2007, read in part:

  Robin: "Broad-based advocacy should be led by consumers and service organizations should support their lead or stay silent."

  Robin: "Service organizations need to direct the questions to consumer organizations when asked for opinions."

  Jim-"He wants to believe that CNIB does work that way now, and he has sent people to consumer organizations when asked for opinions. He wants to know when this does not happen."

  Based on this discussion, we came away from this meeting believing we had achieved a meeting of the minds when it comes to advocacy on broad public policy issues, namely, that it should be led by consumer organizations.

  However, Mr. McKeown states in his letter:

  "We would be pleased to discuss the potential for common advocacy messaging should your board decide this would be of benefit to people who are blind. We believe complementary and unified messaging adds value to the advocacy efforts of each organization and there is great opportunity for collaboration. However, CNIB would not be interested in further discussions about what we can't do in the areas of advocacy. Given the current rates of poverty, unemployment and isolation among people who are blind, it would be unthinkable to remain silent on these issues."

  The Minutes And intent of our joint meeting indicated CNIB would focus on individual advocacy, thereby leaving consumer organizations and other rights holders to take the lead on public policy advocacy. I am taking you up on your statement whereby when there is a difference between what you and other CNIB staff are saying, that I should inform you so you can correct the matter.
  Mr. McKeown's statement would seem to indicate CNIB believes it should retain a leadership role in advocacy on public policy issues. Would you please clarify CNIB's position on this critical issue?

  I find it unfortunate that Mr. McKeown's letter was sent before you had the opportunity to respond to my letter of October 3, 2007, that provided our clear understanding, specifically pertaining to advocacy.

  
  2. Provision of Library Services:

  Can you please clarify a point? Over the past few years, we have heard CNIB say on a growing number of occasions that it is interested in withdrawing from the provision of direct library services, and that public libraries should do a much better job in fulfilling their rightful role in this area.
  However, not so many years ago, CNIB devoted considerable time and energy in raising funds to convert its talking book collection to the new daisy format. This would seem to signal CNIB's intention to remain directly involved in this area.

  Given the new Library and Archives Canada initiative, it would be helpful to the AEBC to understand CNIB's current position on this topic.

  I look forward to hearing from you on the above topics.

  Sincerely,
  Robin East
  President

  Copies:
  Al Jameson
  Bill McKeown
  Cathy Moore
  AEBC Board

  * * * * *
  Jim Sanders sent the following letter to Robin East on December 6, 2007:

  Dear Robin,

  I am responding to your letter of November 21, 2007. Unfortunately, to date I have not received a letter from you dated October 3rd so I cannot respond to its contents.

  However, I can say that the letter sent by Bill McKeown on November 9th was read and approved by myself. Perhaps in my wish to reach some common ground between our two organizations around the area of systemic advocacy I may have given yourself and your board the wrong impression. Therefore in this letter let me be as clear as possible.

  1. Support of AEBC advocacy positions. CNIB will support AEBC advocacy positions under two circumstances: when we are informed as to AEBC advocacy priorities, and when such advocacy priorities do not contradict CNIB values or policies. An example of an area where CNIB would support AEBC would be around the issue of "quiet cars". Please refer to Bill McKeown's letter for other examples. As stated, we believe that a consumer lead initiative is preferable.

  2. CNIB is compelled by the work we do to be engaged in advocacy directed
  at improving systemic accessibility for people with vision loss. We do not claim to speak for all people with vision loss; however, CNIB responsibly cannot remain silent on issues facing people who are blind such as poverty, unemployment or isolation. This position is simply practical and realistic.

  3. CNIB partners with numerous national organizations on areas of eliminating systemic barriers for people with vision loss. We work with groups such as Council of Canadians with Disabilities, Canadian Council of the Blind, Neil Squire Society, Canadian Library Association, Canadian Association of Optometrists, etc.

  4. CNIB staff and volunteers enter all partnerships or collaborations with outside organizations within the following parameters.

  The partnership or collaboration is time limited, roles of various partner organizations are clearly defined, all partners have committed to a mutually agreed upon strategy and desired outcome. Essential to these partnerships is a commitment by all organizations to resolve any conflict that might arise behind the scenes.

  In response to your question regarding the CNIB library I can say that this situation illustrates clearly why a strong consumer movement not tied to service delivery is the best case scenario for Canadians with vision loss.

  Allow me to explain. CNIB delivers library services to anyone with vision loss who requests it. CNIB invested heavily in converting an outdated analog system of producing alternate format library material because we had to. The equipment was old, breaking down and not repairable.

  CNIB had stated many times in the last five years that an alternate format library system does not belong in the charitable sector. Cathy Moore stated in the inaugural Initiative for Equitable Library Access meeting the ideal situation for alternate format production would be a public agency similar to the Canadian Blood Services. Her words reflect my position and the position of CNIB.

  I am encouraged to hear from Cathy Moore that AEBC also believes alternate format library services should rest in the public library sector. As a consumer group that does not provide services, the voice of AEBC members will add strength to this advocacy issue. I would suggest CNIB's public willingness to turn over the CNIB library also strengthens this argument. However, until there is someplace to hand over the keys, CNIB will continue to seek funding and government support to deliver an alternate format library service.

  I hope this letter clarifies CNIB's position on advocacy and alternate format library services.

  Sincerely,

  Jim Sanders
  President and CEO

  P.S. Would you please check the e-mail listing? I received neither of the November letters and was sent the one to which I am now responding from Bill McKeown.

  * * * * *

  
  The Board sent the following letter on November 15, 2007, to the newly-elected Chair of CNIB’s Board of Directors, who took over in late September:

  Mr. Al Jameson, Chair
  CNIB National Board of Directors

  Dear Mr. Jameson:

  It gives us a great deal of pleasure to congratulate you on your election to the position of Chair of CNIB’s National Board of Directors. As the senior volunteer with Canada’s largest blindness service organization, the AEBC Board of Directors will look for an early opportunity to meet with you so that we may share with you the consumer’s perspective on advocacy, public awareness and service delivery.

  As you know, on September 17, 2007 AEBC senior volunteers Robin East, John Rae, Richard Quan and Marcia Cummings met with your senior staff, Jim Sanders, Bill McKeown and Cathy Moore to discuss how our two organizations may work together on issues of importance to Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted. This was a productive meeting with candid and frank discussion on many issues, and will hopefully be a framework of future cooperation between these two vital Canadian organizations working in the field of blindness.
  Once again, Congratulations on your election to this most important post, and may we offer you our very best wishes. You will find enclosed copies of the last two AEBC Activity Reports and the Spring 2007 Canadian Blind Monitor publication for your perusal. These AEBC publications are also available in alternative formats should you or your Board members desire. For additional information about AEBC contact us at 1-800-561-4774 or info@blindcanadians.ca .

  Sincerely,

  Robin East, President Albert Ruel, National Equality Director
  National Board of Directors National Office
  east@blindcanadians.ca aruel@blindcanadians.ca

  CC: Jim Sanders, CNIB President & CEO
  Encl.

  * * * * *

  AEBC continues to pursue accessible elections, and sent the following letter on September 28, 2007:

  Mr. Andy Koopman
  Executive Director
  Association of Managers Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO)

  Dear Executive Director:

  I am writing to you on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians, a national, not for profit organization of blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians, to request an update on work being undertaken for "Accessibility" during Municipal Elections in Ontario.

  At present, in most if not all municipalities in Ontario, blind electors cannot vote independently and in secret. We believe this denial of a citizen's most sacred right violates both the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Ontario Human Rights Code.

  The AEBC believes the Ministry should be exploring alternative methods of voting, so that a more accessible system can be put in place by the next municipal election.

  Of course, voting is not the only concern of the AEBC. We also believe greater access must be added to other aspects of the election process, e.g. better access in multiple formats to candidates' campaign materials, more accessible candidates meetings, and easier access to municipal politicians once elected.

  I look forward to hearing from you and learning how AMCTO and Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Building will be addressing the needs of Ontarians with disabilities with regard to accessible municipal elections, and accessible municipal services and programs.

  Sincerely,

  Albert Ruel, National Equality Director, Signing on behalf of:
  John Rae, 1st Vice President
  Copy to: Mr. John Burke
  Deputy Minister

  * * * * *

  Robin East sent the following letter on October 29, 2007:

  The Honourable Jim Prentice
  Minister of Industry

  Dear Minister:

  Re: Input From the Disabled Community

  I am writing to you on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians / L'Alliance pour l'égalité des personnes aveugles du Canada (AEBC), a national not for profit organization of Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted. Our work focuses primarily on improving public attitudes and providing advice on issues of public policy that directly affect our community.

  The AEBC was formed to provide Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted with our own organization through which we may come together, develop policies and speak for ourselves on issues of common concern.

  We understand that Service Canada has established an external advisory group, comprised of various disability service organizations representative of a cross-section of disabilities from across the country. Why aren't consumer organizations "of" persons with disabilities represented at this table?

  Involving consumer organizations would be more appropriate for at least two reasons:

  1. Democratically constituted consumer organizations are the legitimate vehicles to provide input and views from the disabled community. We know best what our needs and aspirations are. In addition, while service providers may possess certain expertise through their work, they have not generally been given a mandate from their consumers to speak on our behalf.

  2. Service organizations may be in a conflict of interest relationship, as they may either currently provide services in areas being discussed, or may wish to do so in the future. They may gain an unfair advantage through their participation, which may positively affect their ability to bid successfully on contracts, if they are put out to tender.

  The AEBC believes strongly in the principle "nothing about us without us." We therefore respectfully request that the make-up of this Committee be amended to directly involve consumer organizations, and that consumer organizations be directly involved in any and all consultations that Service Canada undertakes.

  Sincerely,

  Robin East,President
  Copies:
  Colin Carrie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry
  Mr. Ajit Mehhe, Director General, Services for Persons with disabilities
  Mr. Laurie Beachall, National Coordinator, Council of Canadians With Disabilities
  Ms. Traci Walters, National Director, Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres

  Note: We have received a note advising us that this letter has been referred to the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister responsible for Service Canada.

  * * * * *

  Robin East received the following letter after participating in a workshop on charities at the Canada Revenue Agency:

  Dear Mr. East:

  On behalf of the Canada Revenue Agency, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude for your contribution to the Small and Rural Charities Initiative and for attending the workshop on October 11, 2007 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The significant investment of your time into this initiative is appreciated.

  The workshop discussions and suggestions will be the foundation of the panel recommendations, which will be presented to The Honourable Gordon O'Connor, Minister of National Revenue and documented in the Summary Report of the Small and Rural Charities Panel, which will be made available to the public.

  Collaboration with the charitable sector is a means of ensuring that we are able to continue to strengthen our programs and develop new and innovative ways to helping small and rural charities meet their obligations more simply and easily. Once again, thank you for helping to make the Small and Rural Charities Initiative a success.

  Sincerely,

  William V. Baker
  * * * * *

  John sent the following letter to the Royal British Columbia Museum on July 10, 2007:

  Ms. Pauline Rafferty, CEO
  Royal British Columbia Museum

  Dear Ms. Rafferty:

  Re: Tactile Access for Blind, Deaf-blind and Partially Sighted Patrons

  This year, the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) held its biennial national Conference in Victoria. As its former President, and a lover of museums, prior to coming to Victoria, I made some phone calls in an effort to find tour opportunities for our members or myself. One of those calls was to the Royal BC Museum, where I was told in no uncertain terms this Museum does not have items to touch or special tours for persons like myself who might like to visit.

  During our Conference, the Hon. Claude Richmond, Minister of Employment and Income Assistance, spoke briefly to inform us of a new initiative from the BC Government, contained in a Press Release entitled, "PROVINCE INVESTS $1.14 MILLION IN ACCESSIBLE TOURISM " dated May 18, 2007.

  From the floor, I told the Minister of my difficulties in finding tour opportunities at Victoria's historic places or museums, and that I hoped this initiative would include museums, as I expected to be back in Victoria for another organization's conference next May.

  Could you please let me know what policies/programs your Museum currently has that will afford an opportunity for blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted patrons to enjoy the rich collection of items your Museum displays, and what plans, if any, are currently underway to expand our access, especially tactile access.

  I look forward to hearing from you in the near future, and I assure you the AEBC would be pleased to assist your Museum in expanding access for blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted patrons to your extensive collections.

  Sincerely,

  John Rae
  1st Vice President
  * * * * *

  
  The following letter was sent on September 13, 2007:

  Director
  Canadian Museum of Civilization

  Dear Director:

  I am writing on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians, a national, not for profit organization of individuals who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted. Our work focuses on public awareness and providing advice on policies and programs that directly affect members of our community.

  Some of our members, including myself, are interested in history and enjoy visiting museums. For us, a visit is most useful when we can touch a range of items that are part of the collection or exhibit.

  Can you please let us know how much of your current collection can be touched, and what plans are underway to expand access to your collections for persons with various disabilities, including persons who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted.

  I visit Ottawa from time to time, and would be most willing to assist in expanding access to your wonderful collections.

  Sincerely,

  John Rae
  1st Vice President
  * * * * *

  Several letters reprinted below mention AEBC’s paper on quiet cars.

  The paper can be found at: http://www.blindcanadians.ca/press_releases//index.php?BriefID=42 (opens in a new window) .
  John Rae sent the following to a senior official at the Transportation Development Ctr on July 5, 2007:

  Dr. Valerie Gill
  Senior Ergonomist
  TDC

  Dear Dr. Gill:

  Re: Dangers of the Hybrid Quiet Car

  It was a great pleasure meeting you at the close of the recent Transed Conference in Montreal. I thoroughly enjoyed the conference, and appreciated the opportunity to present our paper on the Dangers of the Hybrid Car, a subject the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians considers a new obstacle to the safe and independent travel of blind and partially sighted persons worldwide.

  We believe the TDC is in an excellent position to assist us in resolving this issue, through research into effective ways of adding a sound to these quiet automobiles. This could represent landmark work, which could have international impact.

  We are asking the TDC to consider this request for assistance in this regard. I may be reached directly at: 416-941-1547 or by e-mail at: rae@blindcanadians.ca .

  Sincerely,

  John Rae
  1st Vice President
  * * * * *

  The following letter was sent to the provincial Offices of Disability Issues, relevant Ministries, and in cases where neither exist, to the Premier’s offices on September 13, 2007:

  I am writing to update you on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) to introduce you to our organization, and to seek the assistance of your Government on two issues affecting the safety and inclusion of blind and partially sighted citizens, namely, the quiet hybrid automobile and the calling out of bus stops by Transit operators.
  The AEBC is a national, not for profit organization of Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted. Our organization was founded in 1992 with a mandate to increase the rights and opportunities of blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians, and to work collaboratively on public policy issues. To that end, AEBC works with 11 Chapters across Canada, Victoria, Vancouver, Kelowna, Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Collingwood, Ottawa and Montreal. Through these local outlets AEBC is not speaking for the blind; we are the blind speaking for ourselves.
  The Quiet Hybrid Automobile:

  AEBC’s membership and National Board are fully supportive of the environmental benefits of the new hybrid automobiles. However, as the attached Brief will outline in some detail, they pose real dangers to all residents, but especially to we who rely upon our hearing to move safely and independently through our communities.

  We believe that an urgent dialogue, including auto manufacturers, government regulators, trade unions and consumer organizations such as the AEBC is required to develop a solution to this new danger on our streets.

  We ask your Government to bring pressure on auto manufacturers by writing in support of our concerns, and by purchasing such vehicles for your fleets only when they include a feature that will make them safer for all pedestrians.
  Transit Operators Calling Out Bus Stops:
  The AEBC membership and National Board fully support the two recent rulings handed down by the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal and the Canada Transportation Agency (Tribunal Ruling & articles attached), which require that Toronto and Ottawa bus drivers and streetcar operators begin consistent announcements of all bus and streetcar stops. It is our firm belief that our members deserve the same information afforded to the print-reading public that allows them to always be aware of their current location, namely the information provided by posted street signs.
  Many other Canadian Transit Authorities are now ensuring that all new busses purchased are equipped with the audio announcement capability of modern GPS systems, and the Lower Mainland of BC is one such forward thinking Transit Authority (Vancouver Sun article dated July 4, 2007 is enclosed). Of course Vancouver’s Skytrain was built with such a system installed from the start and remains today a fully accessible transit system for all who use it.
  AEBC is requesting that your Government Ministry responsible for local transit authorities ensure that new buses purchased include this technology from this date forward, that they undertake to retrofit existing busses with talking GPS equipment, and/or that they begin an immediate training program designed to have drivers announce all bus stops when busses not equipped with automated bust stop announcement systems are in use.
  In conclusion, AEBC staff and volunteers are anxious to work with your Provincial Office for Disability Issues toward the total inclusion into all aspects of community life of citizens who are blind, deaf-blind or partially sighted. To that end, I look forward to hearing from you on these critical safety and access issues, and we would welcome an opportunity to meet with the Government body responsible for disability issues.
  Should you desire additional information about the AEBC and its programs and services please do not hesitate to contact me in Victoria at 250-294-1352 or aruel@blindcanadians.ca .
  Respectfully yours,

  Albert A. Ruel Robin East, President
  AEBC National Equality Director AEBC National Board of Directors

  CC.
  Laurie Beachell, National Coordinator
  Council of Canadians with Disabilities
  Jim Prowse, Executive Director
  Canadian Council of the Blind

  Encl.
  * * * * *

  
  We received the following response to our letter to the Premier of British Columbia, regarding the dangers of the hybrid car, on October 24, 2007:

  Dear Mr. Ruel and Mr. East:

  I am responding to your September 10, 2007 e-mail addressed to the Honourable Gordon Campbell, Premier, regarding concerns over low noise levels generated by today's hybrid vehicles.

  Hybrid vehicles are powered by switching between a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This benefits the environment by delivering better mileage and less pollution than other vehicles.

  I appreciate the concerns you have raised regarding hybrid vehicles producing low noise levels at slow speeds; although, we are not aware of any incidents in British Columbia where a sight-impaired person has been involved in a collision with a hybrid vehicle due to a lack of engine noise.

  I am advised that this issue has been previously raised and reviewed with the governments of Japan and the United Kingdom, as well as with automotive manufacturers who produce hybrid vehicles. However, these reviews did not result in recommendations for legislative amendments, or suggestions for specific solutions to ensure that hybrid vehicles operating at slow speeds can be better detected.

  You may be aware that Transport Canada is responsible for establishing standards for all motor vehicles used in Canada; as such, this issue falls more appropriately within their mandate. I am told that Transport Canada continues to monitor this situation and will initiate the appropriate course of action, should the need be clearly demonstrated. You may wish to visit Transport Canada's website for more information at: www.tc.gc.ca/road/menu.htm (opens in a new window) .

  Thank you for taking the time to write with your concerns regarding road safety.

  Yours truly,

  John Les
  Solicitor General
  CC:The Honourable Gordon Campbell

  * * * * *

  John Rae sent the following letter to mayors across the country to ask their assistance with the issue of quiet hybrid cars on July 13, 2007

  Re: Dangers of the Hybrid Automobile
  
  I am writing to you on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), to bring to your attention and to seek the assistance of you and your Council on a new barrier that affects the safety of blind and partially sighted citizens, namely, the quiet hybrid automobile.
  
  The AEBC is a national, not for profit organization of Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted. We have come together to work collaboratively on public policy issues, and improving public attitudes. All of our work is aimed at enabling us to participate more fully in all aspects of regularly community life.
  
  We are well aware of the environmental benefits of the new hybrid autos. However, as the attached Brief will outline in some detail, they pose real dangers to all residents, but especially to we who rely upon our hearing to move safely and independently through our communities.
  
  We believe that an urgent dialogue, including auto manufacturers, government regulators, trade unions and consumer organizations such as the AEBC is required to develop a solution to this new danger on our streets.
  
  We ask your Council to bring pressure on auto manufacturers by writing in support of our concerns, and by refusing to purchase such vehicles until they include a feature that will make them safer for all pedestrians.
  
  We look forward to hearing from you in the near future on actions you and your Council are taking in this important issue.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  John Rae
  1st Vice President
  * * * * *

  Richard Marion, the President of the Lower Mainland Chapter, sent the following letter to the mayors of the Greater Vancouver Area municipalities on November 15, 2007, and he has received several invitations to speak in person about this important issue:

  Dear Mayor and Council:

  RE: Hybrid Car Presentation at Council meeting

  I am writing this letter to you on behalf of the AEBC Lower Mainland Chapter. Founded in 1992, The Alliance For Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), is an organization of people who are blind, partially sighted or deaf-blind who joined together to improve public awareness of issues facing us as we continue to work towards equal rights and privileges in society. For more information on our programs, visit us at www.blindcanadians.ca (opens in a new window)

  Recently, you may have been in receipt of a letter concerning hybrid cars and their impact on us as we travel throughout your city and others like it. (See attached letter and articles). As you may be aware, hybrid cars make no noise at low speeds. Because of this, this greatly increases the hazards to blind pedestrians and therefore, further reduces our safety on busy and even not so busy streets.

  We are seeking your support in two ways. First we would like you to join us in lobbying regulators and auto manufactures to ensure that a non-intrusive noise generator is installed on all hybrid vehicles. Second, we would like your local government to use its purchasing power to ask if a noise generator can be installed on the cars you may be planning to purchase in the future. If the manufacturer refuses, please consider supporting us by purchasing other environmentally friendly vehicles.

  We would like an opportunity to address your council on this very important issue. We feel this would help your local government gain a better understanding of the danger that the increasing number of hybrid vehicles, is having on a considerable number of your constituents. I look forward to your response. If you have any questions, I can be reached at richard. marion@shaw.ca , or by telephone at 604-936-4698. Thank you for your attention and support on this matter.

  Sincerely,

  Richard Marion

  President
  AEBC Lower Mainland Chapter
  CC:AEBC National Board (Electronic Mail)
  Advocates for Sight Impaired Consumers (Electronic Mail)

  * * * * *

  John Rae sent the following to the Transportation Research Board in the United States on October 15, 2007:

  Dear Transportation Research Board:

  I am writing on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), a national, not for profit organization of Canadians who are blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted in support of research, entitled, "Quiet Cars: Threats to Safe Travel for Blind Pedestrians."

  We believe this is an important cross-border issue, which impacts on the safe and independent travel of all pedestrians, but most particularly, those of us who rely upon our hearing to move safely and independently throughout our communities.

  I had the pleasure to present a paper on this topic to the 11th International Transed Conference in Montreal, Quebec, in June, and am attaching it for your reference and use.

  We in Canada strongly urge the Board to give every consideration to this important initiative, and would be happy to assist it in any way we can.

  Sincerely

  John Rae
  1st Vice President
  Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians
  E-mail: rae@blindcanadians.ca

  * * * * *

  
  John Rae wrote the following letter to the new Chief Commissioner of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission on December 8, 2007:
  
  Ms. Marilou McPhedran
  Chief Commissioner
  Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission

  Dear Marilou:
  
  It was truly delightful to run into you at this year's End Exclusion event in Ottawa, and I want to again offer AEBC's hearty congratulations on your recent appointment as Chief Commissioner of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
  
  As I mentioned in Ottawa, I think the Ontario Commission has done some excellent work in the area of researching various important human rights issues, and I am hopeful other Commissions will undertake similar work. For us, two areas would clearly be voting independently and in secret, and how human rights law covers the internet and its content.
  
  I mention to Robin East, AEBC's President that we chatted in Ottawa, and I trust he will be in touch with you in the next few weeks in support of his efforts to make the Saskatchewan electoral system more accessible to electors who cannot read conventional print.
  
  Again, hearty congratulations and best wishes for a successful time as Chief Commissioner.
  
  Warm regards,

  John Rae, 1st Vice President
  CC: Robin East, AEBC President

  * * * * *

  The following letter is being sent to wireless handset manufacturers as the first step towards greater accessibility of cellular technology:
  To whom it may concern:

  I am writing on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), a consumer organization working to increase the rights and opportunities of blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians to everyday life. For information on our organization, please visit us on the worldwide web at http://www.blindcanadians.ca (opens in a new window) .

  I am writing today concerning the lack of complete, out-of-the-box accessibility of current cellular phones. Although there are many handsets that do have some voice output, such as the Nokia E65 (available in Europe), none of them allow a blind person complete and equal access to all of today’s phone features. The only way one can obtain this access is by purchasing additional third party software at an extra cost of at least $300 Canadian.

  This is not an ideal situation. First of all, the two manufacturers of the speech software do not make versions which will work on every phone, only for those phones which run on the Symbian operating system or the Windows Mobile platform. These phones, incidentally, tend to be the most expensive phones on the market from each manufacturer.

  The result of this lack of built-in, universal accessibility is a lack of choice for this segment of the wireless market. Each of the wireless service providers offers great deals on handsets in order to gain new customers or keep existing ones, but these offers rarely feature the more expensive phones which could be made accessible. When you add to the high price of the handsets the extra cost for the speech software, the unevenness of the playing field is self-evident. For example, if I could see, and I wanted a phone, I could have my choice of at least three or four free ones from each service provider. However, if I need a phone which can be “tweaked”, I’m going to be paying a high price for it—that is, if I can even find one of the eligible phones, as the Symbian phones don’t tend to be picked up by Canadian service providers, probably due to their higher cost. The Windows Mobile-based phones are also on the higher end of the scale, in size and price.

  For all of the above reasons-choice, equality, affordability-we are writing to request that research and development efforts be directed towards the production of universally accessible handsets-not just a few, but throughout your entire production line, and we would be interested in knowing how quickly this change in design might be able to be accomplished. When will you be able to give blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians the freedom to choose and use the handsets of their choice?

  Yours sincerely,

  Robin East
  National President

  * * * * *

  The following letter, accompanied by a more detailed fact sheet, will be sent to major driving schools across Canada by the beginning of the year:

  RE: Inclusion of Basic Awareness About Blind Pedestrians in Your Program

  To whom it may concern:

  I am writing to you on behalf of the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC), a national consumer-based organization that advocates in favour of full inclusion and equal opportunities for blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians. We research accessibility issues and solutions to those issues, and work with individuals, government, and the private sector to ensure that all aspects of Canadian society are accessible and inclusive of our constituents.

  We are writing to you, as instructors of new drivers, to request that a small awareness component regarding blind and partially sighted pedestrians be incorporated into your training program. This may only require a few minutes of your time, but we believe that much confusion and many near-accidents could be avoided if drivers were simply more aware of how best to interact with a blind or partially-sighted pedestrian.

  We have enclosed a one-page summary of tips and recommendations which we hope that you will not only provide to your students, but also specifically address at some point during the course of your program.

  Key Points

  Generally speaking, a blind pedestrian will initiate a crossing when they are certain that the traffic parallel to them (and traveling straight through the intersection) is in motion. In other words, if cars appear to be traveling perpendicular to the intended crossing, the person will not wish to cross; if cars are traveling in the same direction as they intend to cross, this is (typically) an indication that it is safe and appropriate to initiate a crossing. This, of course, becomes more difficult at smaller intersections with little traffic, or at stop signs, where only a single car will likely traverse the intersection at a time, and may be going in any of 3 directions in the process. Most blind pedestrians will likely try to wait for an "all quiet" (no traffic) in order to make these crossings, on account of this uncertainty.
  
  There are some implications of the above process which may not be immediately evident. For example, if a vehicle is the first in line to make a right hand turn and a pedestrian is waiting to cross in the same direction, there may be a stalemate: the driver may wish to wait for the blind pedestrian, yet the blind pedestrian will not know (unless there is other parallel traffic to go by) that the light has changed. "Deadlock" situations like these are tricky to resolve without direct communication with the pedestrian. If in doubt, drivers should usually just proceed as normal, as this at least is expected and predictable by the pedestrian.

  “Quiet” (hybrid) Vehicles

  The introduction of quieter and quieter cars and, more recently, the hybrid (or ‘quiet’) car has made assessment of traffic patterns increasingly difficult for blind and partially sighted travelers. Drivers of especially quiet or hybrid vehicles need to be more vigilant about pedestrians in general, but pedestrians who are blind are particularly vulnerable to accidents. These cars are, particularly when stopped, almost undetectable in many instances. Blind pedestrians have been known to walk full into the side of a hybrid car at a stop sign, completely unaware of its existence. The onus is on the driver to ensure that their presence is known, or that they yield the right of way to pedestrians who may be completely unaware of their presence.

  We are attempting to work with vehicle manufacturers and industry experts to determine what possible solutions to this problem may exist. In the interim, however, the onus is on the driver to ensure that their presence is known, or that they yield the right of way to pedestrians who may be completely unaware of their presence.

  Conclusions

  Blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted Canadians travel independently to and from school, work, and social activities each and every day. "Orientation and mobility" training typically provides a person who is blind with the tools and techniques necessary to safely travel from place to place; however, a lack of awareness among drivers often presents unique safety issues that other pedestrians do not have to consider. We hope that driving schools across the country will be willing to incorporate a small awareness component into their programs, in order that new drivers be more adept at interacting with blind, deaf-blind and partially sighted pedestrians at large.
  
  If you would like any more information on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would, in any case, appreciate being appraised of your intentions in this regard, and whether or not we can count on you as a partner in educating new drivers on this issue. We will be publicly recognizing our partnerships in this regard in the future.

  Sincerely,

  Robin East, President
  Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians