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News Release2000-08 Task Force on Access to Information for Print Disabled Canadians FormedOttawa, June 19, 2000 - Mr. Roch Carrier, National Librarian of Canada, and Dr. Euclid Herie, President and CEO of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, are pleased to announce the formation of a task force to address the need for inclusive public policy in providing access to information for print disabled Canadians. While the Internet is increasing timely access to information for many Canadians, standards are required to convert electronic files to the alternate format necessary for some users: audio, Braille or large print. "All Canadians," said Mr. Carrier "including those who use alternate formats like Braille and audiocassette or voice output, have a right to the information they need to participate fully in our society. We want to be sure that all information providers understand and can support the delivery of information in an accessible, timely form. For that reason, the President of the CNIB and I have agreed to fund a special study of this issue, while we are all gearing up for more Canadian content on the Internet." Dr. Herie said, "It is timely for consumers, government officials and content and service providers to work together to harness the potential of new technologies, so that print disabled Canadians may benefit from government programs that facilitate access to information for study, work, leisure and life-long learning." As the Government of Canada prepares to deliver its information and services online by 2004, the Task Force will consult with print disabled Canadians, alternate format producers and service providers, publishers and organizations representing the print disabled, the information sector and government officials. Their task is to develop, by the end of October 2000, a public policy framework and a plan to ensure that print disabled Canadians can get timely, affordable and usable information to facilitate their full participation in the emerging knowledge-based economy. The National Library of Canada and the CNIB are pleased that the Honourable Mr. Justice James K. Hugessen of the Federal Court will chair the Task Force. Other members of the Task Force are: Gwynneth Evans, Director General, National and International Programs, National Library of Canada Elizabeth Gayda, President, Learning Disabilities Association of Canada, Montreal, Que. Barbara Greeniaus, Director, Library Services Branch, Ministry of Municipal Affairs, Victoria, B.C. Monique Lecavalier, Assistant Director, Bibliothèque des lettres et des sciences humaines, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Que. Donna Pletz Passey, Chair, Canadian Association of Educational Resource Centres Graham Stoodley, Q.C., Member of the CNIB National Board of Directors and Chair of the Client Services Committee André Vincent, President and Director General, Les éditions du troisième oeil, Longueuil, Que. - 30 - For more information, please contact: Gwynneth Evans CNIB contact: Dr. Euclid Herie To receive a copy of this news release in braille or on audiocassette, please contact: |