Old News Redux

PC MLA ordered to comply with accessibility rules by June 20

Dear Ms. Paon,

How is it that a duly elected representative could be so ignorant of democracy? A team effort made accessibility a requirement in 2013 and you're flouting the law.  While you've been busy claiming reimbursement for your illegal constituency office, voters with disabilities have been treated with contempt. Your ludicrous defense:

•  "Paon said no one has ever told her or her staff they could not get into the building because of the gravel space. We've received absolutely no complaints, we have a high percentage of seniors in my constituency and my brother is a paraplegic, so I'm very cognizant of accessibility issues." - Jean LaRoche, CBC

is so tiresome and condescending that it is almost beneath a response.

• The biggest Catch-22 for wheelchair users is that they are often prevented from having a voice simply because they can't get in to complain.  "I can't hear you, shouting out there in the parking lot."  Maybe that explains why you have discriminated in employment as well.
• And of course your paraplegic brother makes you a world-class authority on disability.  When your brother is a paraplegic, you should know better.

Time to get with the program.  People with disabilities make excellent employees.  They are loyal voters.  Not facts a politician can afford to ignore.

Gus Reed