The province’s new accessibility legislation took effect today, appropriately enough on this, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Minister John Abbott made the announcement, and signed proclamations for both during an event at the Emera Innovation Exchange on Signal Hill.

Among other things, the new legislation requires public bodies to prepare accessibility plans every three years, and provide inspection and enforcement powers to ensure accessibility standards are met.

Meanwhile, a second event was held at Government House to announce winners of Empower NL’s annual Independent Living Awards.

The Cecilia Carroll Award went to Myles Murphy, executive director for the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of the Deaf.

The Young Leader Award was presented to Stephanie Evans, already known for her extensive volunteer work for inclusion and rights for the disabled.

Coastal Wave Elite, represented by Meagan Corcoran and Denise Read, were the recipients of the Social Inclusion Award for Independent Living, for its work in accepting athletes with any kind of disability.

And the Business Award went to Island Furniture Association, which has for years employed people with developmental delays and contributed financially to finding about 1,500 job placements.