Newfoundland and Labrador is looking to introduce accessibility legislation, and according to the minister responsible the province still has a “long way to go.”

Minister John Abbott introduced the legislation, designed to remove and prevent barriers for persons with disabilities, on Monday.

The proposed enabling legislation—formed following extensive engagement with the community— would see government outline the principles and goals to advance accessibility in the province.

The Bill would also establish an advisory board to make recommendations to the minister regarding accessibility standards and public bodies would be required to submit an accessibility plan every three years.

Currently, five other provinces and the federal government have such legislation in place.

Abbott says when comparing this province to those other jurisdictions, it’s clear that we still have a long way to go.

He says people in this province with disabilities face barriers every day, and this is the opportunity to identify and remove them.