Barrier Free Manitoba

Paul Thomas and Rob McInnes, two highly respected Manitobans, shared the comments on the MAAC's recommendations they have sent to Minister Jennifer Howard. Both support BFM's call for stronger measures.

Paul G. Thomas, Professor Emeritus of Political Studies at the University of Manitoba, served as Duff Roblin Professor of Government. Over his long and distinquished career, Dr. Thomas has received numerous types of recognition for his scholarship and contributions to public policy. In July 2007 he was inducted into the Order of Manitoba which annually recognizes twelve Manitobans for their outstanding contributions to the province, Canada and abroad.

Here's an excerpt from his comments:

In endorsing BFM’s call for stronger measures in five areas, I offer the somewhat different perspective of an academic who has studied and participated at times in the political and the policy process for four decades. My bottom line, however, is that the Government of Manitoba should strive to get as much right as possible on this round of reforms because we owe it to the disability community who have waited decades to have their rights enshrined in strong legislation and to have those rights supported by effective programmes and services.

Read his full comments here.

Rob McInnes, Partner in Diversity World, is highly regarded human services professional with over 30 years of experience in management and innovative program design - focused on issues of employment and diversity. Mr, McInnes is editor/co-author of several publications on disability and employment issues and has an management career that spans senior positions in local and national disability organizations, as well as experience gained in his past role as a Diversity Consultant with IBM in California. Most recently, Mr. McInnes has spearheaded the development of the Ability Axis Employment Expo.

Here's part of what he had to say:

[I]t seems that the difference between Barrier Free’s position and the Advisory Council’s recommendations is the difference between what should be and what can “sell” – between what effective legislation would look like and what is perceived as being more likely to be acceptable/passed.

Read his full comments here.