MP Albas questions how a single use plastic ban will affect people with disabilities

Local MP Dan Albas is questioning how a ban on single use plastics could impact people with disabilities.

“A single use plastics ban would include bendable plastic straws. Because of the potential ban on the manufacture of these products in Canada, acquiring them for those that absolutely need them will be a challenge,” said Albas. “Persons with a disability need these straws as a function of their everyday life.”

Earlier this week, Albas, who also serves as the Tories Shadow Minister for Environment, asked Environment Canada, during a committee meeting, if there was a plan to address the concerns.

“Exemptions should exist in the bans for people who need these items for accessibility reasons, specifically plastic straws. What do you have to say in terms of the government’s position on exemptions for plastic straws for persons with disabilities? Asked Albas.

The Environment Canada representative responded by saying they’ve heard the concerns, but don’t have a firm answer to the issue at this time.

“These are important questions and ones I hear from constituents. If as several witnesses have suggested there should be accessibility exemptions, there need to be clear plans in place to make those happen. We need to be removing barriers to accessibility, not pilling more on,” said Albas.