Wednesday, August 8, 2012
The Waterloo Region Record featured ILCWR's Director of Advocacy and Awareness, Paula Saunders, as an advocate for accessible VIA Rail Stations!
VIA Rail has recently announced its plan to install automated e-ticket devices across Ontario, leaving stations in Kitchener, Sudbury, Niagara Falls, Guelph and St. Catharines unstaffed. While cost effective, this decision could make VIA Rail unaccessible for many travelers with disabilities.
Stations currently use portable lift systems to help passengers with mobility issues board the train. They are the responsibility of at least one ticket agent, who has the knowledge operate them in a safe and timely manner.
Paula emphasized the importance of having ticket agents or other workers available to assist with the lift, and like many others, has concerns about the lack of assistance unstaffed stations may provide.


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