Archives 2006

AccessiB, a novel tool for travelers with restricted physical ability

Montreal, July 10 2006— Today Kéroul presented AccessiB, The Open Road—for All, a novel and indispensable travel tool that all disabled travelers should slip into their luggage.

AccesiB, The Open Road—for All vaunts the beauties of five regions of Quebec—the Eastern Townships, Chaudière-Appalaches, Montérégie, Montreal, and Quebec City— highlighting the tourist and cultural establishments whose architecture and activities meet the criteria of hospitality and accessibility set by Kéroul. And Kéroul is already looking forward to future editions with longer itineraries and further destinations. AccessiB, The Open Road—for All is itself the sequel to Québec accessible which recommends to disabled tourists more than 1, 000 accessible museums, historical sites, theatres, hotels, and lodgings.

Partners such as Economic Development Canada, the Ministry of Tourism, Loto-Québec, Office des personnes handicapées du Québec, ministère de la Culture et des Communications, ministère de l’Éducation, du Loisir et des Sports, Parks Canada, Tourisme Montréal, and Office du tourisme du Québec have joined hands with AccessiB, The Open Road—for All. All strong adherents of the values of inclusion Kéroul has been promoting for over 26 years, these partners also remember to stress that AcessiB, The Open Road—for All gives leaders in the tourist industry a good look at the business opportunities offered by this expanding market.

The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn has pointed out that: “Economic Development Canada salutes this accessible tourism project which will help to improve the quality of life of those with restricted physical ability. This novel tool will give this clientele wider access to tourist spots and will produce spin-offs stimulating the economic activities of our regions. The Agency is happy to renew its partnership with Kéroul and to support its initiative with a three-year, non-reimbursable $75,000 grant.”

The Quebec Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Françoise Gauthier, had this to say: “AccessiB, The Open Road—for All is another of Kéroul’s wonderful initiatives. Our great pioneer in accessible tourism, Kéroul has succeeded in developing expertise which is recognized and increasingly sought after abroad. With the insight this expertise allows regarding the realities and needs of disabled travelers, the ministère du Tourisme can work to facilitate their access to tourist destinations. Today, I am very proud to announce that the partnership agreement between the ministère du Tourisme and Kéroul is being renewed for the next three years.”

“These sums will be reinvested in research, promotion, and services to members,” remarked André Leclerc, Kéroul’s CEO. “But over and above the expression of our corporate interests, what I really have to say is this: It’s summer! Let’s get out and travel the roads of Quebec!” he concluded.

Key consultant on matters of accessibility for the ministère du Tourisme and the City of Montreal, Kéroul—Tourism and culture for persons with restricted physical ability—is a non-profit organization whose services advocate, develop, promote, and provide information on accessible tourism and culture.

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Source: Lyne Ménard, directrice adjointe
(514) 252-3104

Isabelle Ducharme, chargée de projet
(514) 252-3104