The government has outlined plans to create a more accessible New Brunswick, releasing its first five-year strategic plan on accessibility.

"The release of this strategy represents an important launching point for the progress we anticipate over the next few years," said Post-Secondary Education and Training Minister Jean-Claude D'Amours. "Improving accessibility across the province is a significant undertaking, and this plan clearly establishes how government will work with all New Brunswickers and all sectors to make that happen."

The plan has three goals:

• engage with all sectors to identify and remove barriers to accessibility
• create a culture of accessibility
• establish accessibility standards regulations and enforce them

D'Amours said the plan was shaped by advice from the Accessibility Advisory Board, feedback from people and organizations, and research and lessons learned from other provinces.

The plan follows the establishment of the Accessibility Act and reflects the act's focus on developing accessibility standards in eight priority areas:

• information and communications
• employment
• built environment
• government services
• transportation
• education
• housing
• sports and recreation

An accessibility office has been established within the Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour. It will lead implementation of the plan and will report progress over the next five years. It will also support the Accessibility Advisory Board in its work to develop and recommend accessibility standards that could become regulations.

"This is another historic step for New Brunswick and New Brunswickers with a disability," said board chair Haley Flaro. "This strategic plan is good for individuals, families, businesses and the community. The legislation is the foundation to making accessibility a priority, and this plan will help us build on that as we move forward."

The department is conducting public engagement on accessibility. People are encouraged to learn more and share their input online.