This petition advocates for wider accessibility of affordable internet, particularly for those on fixed incomes receiving ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program) or other disability support in Canada. 

This issue came to my attention once realizing my uncle, who is on ODSP due to his Multiple Sclerosis, has never been able to afford internet.

Not all internet service providers (ISPs) currently offer equitable rates. 

 

Aim of Petition:  To request that Canada’s Accessibility Commissioner to the CHRC, Michael Gottheil, uphold the Canada Accessibility Act by ensuring funding for or purchased provision of the internet to those in receipt of ODSP or other similar disability assistance in Canada. To request that the Accessibility Commissioner works with Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry to expand the existing Connecting Families program so that persons living with disabilities may be included.

 

Reason for Petition: For those already marginalized in a myriad of ways in our able-bodied society, not being able to afford the internet means increased isolation and vulnerability.

To access virtual programs and services in the community, internet service is required. The people who need these services the most are the ones who cannot afford to participate. The safety and well-being of recipients and their families rests on their ability to access information, connect with loved ones, attend support programs virtually, as well as attend medical and other necessary appointments. There are peer support, social programs and counseling services currently offered virtually and these are a lifeline to those who live alone and suffer a disability. The pandemic has made it undeniably clear that access to the internet is essential. 

 

Context: Currently, for many living with a disability in Canada on fixed income, affordable internet is not accessible; although there may be select options depending on your region, not all internet service providers are offering equitable rates. 

In response to the need for affordable internet during the pandemic, the recent Connecting Families initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) has resulted in ISPs voluntarily (with no government subsidy) expanding accessibility programs to low-income families and seniors.  However, most programs that cater to qualifying groups (Canada Child Benefit or Guaranteed Income Supplement recipients) do not extend to individuals receiving disability assistance.

There are some exceptions:  There is an excellent program offered by Rogers called Connected for Success, yet for individuals like my uncle who happen to fall outside of areas serviced by Rogers, there is no other ISP willing to offer a similar program. And, Telus's Internet for Good is only applicable to those on select provincial disability assistance programs (BC, Alberta, Quebec). 

This is a gap that must be addressed, and expanding the ISED's existing Connecting Families program to include those living with disabilities is one possible next step.

 

Thank you for your support.  The well-being of some of our most vulnerable members of society depends on it.