Government of Yukon
Archives
FOR RELEASE #05-198
July 26, 2005
Yukon Takes Initiative With Disabled Persons Parking
WHITEHORSE - The Yukon government has announced a re-enforcement initiative to deal with individuals who insist on parking in designated "handicapped parking" spaces at territorial government buildings.
"Individuals should recognize that handicapped parking spaces are intended for the sole use of persons with disabilities," Highways and Public Works Minister Glenn Hart said. "The purpose of these parking stalls is to allow persons with disabilities to have better access to buildings and facilities. We believe this re-enforcement initiative will be highly beneficial in communicating the true intent of our parking laws for the benefit of all Yukon citizens."
This re-enforcement initiative is being introduced as a direct result of complaints received from the disabled community who continue to find their designated parking spaces at territorial government buildings being used by mobile individuals not requiring the benefit of such a space.
As a result of the re-enforcement initiative, the Yukon government security staff will be given the responsibility to identify those who are illegally parked in spaces designated as "handicapped parking".
The first time a vehicle is identified as illegally parked in a "handicapped parking" space, a violation sticker will be attached to the vehicle and the license plate will be recorded into a database.
The second time security staff identifies a parking offence, the vehicle will be towed at the owner's expense.
Joel Macht, Education & Employment Services co-ordinator with the Yukon Council On Disabilities, said this initiative will remind individuals of the true intent of parking stalls designated for persons with disabilities.
"Far too often I hear people saying that they will only be parked in a 'persons with disabilities' space for a few minutes or that they will be gone before anybody needs this space. These special parking spaces make it easier for persons with disabilities to have access to government offices and services and to go work," Macht said. "This parking initiative will allow persons with disabilities to continue their contribution to our community in the highest possible manner."
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| Contact: | |
| Peter Carr | Darren Butt |
| Communications Advisor | Communications Officer |
| Cabinet Office | Department of Highways and Public Works |
| (867) 667-8688 | (867) 667-3654 |
| peter.carr@gov.yk.ca | darren.butt@gov.yk.ca |