Germain Hotels is committed to ensuring equal access and participation for individuals with disabilities. We are dedicated to treating people with disabilities in a manner that preserves their dignity and independence.

We believe in inclusion and are committed to meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities in a timely manner by removing and preventing accessibility barriers while complying with our obligations under Ontario’s accessibility legislation.

Organizational Commitment

Germain Hotels is committed to ensuring equal access and participation for people with disabilities. We are dedicated to treating individuals with dignity and independence, promoting their integration, and eliminating barriers to accessibility. We comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) and Ontario's accessibility laws.

Training

We train employees and volunteers on accessibility standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Training includes:

• AODA and Customer Service Standards requirements.

• How to interact with individuals with different disabilities.

• The use of assistive devices.

• How to assist individuals facing accessibility challenges.

Assistive Devices

Individuals may use personal assistive devices to access our services. Employees receive training on assistive devices available on-site.

Communication

We communicate with individuals in ways that accommodate their disabilities and collaborate with them to determine the best communication method.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome in public areas. If a law prohibits service animals, we will explain the reason and offer an alternative solution.

Support Persons

Individuals with disabilities may be accompanied by a support person. If fees apply, we will post relevant information in a visible location.

Temporary Disruptions

In the event of a service disruption, we will post a notice including the reason, expected duration, and alternative solutions.

Feedback Process

We welcome feedback on our accessible services. Feedback can be submitted through various channels and will be addressed promptly. A response will be provided within a specified timeframe.

Availability of Documents

Accessibility-related documents are available upon request in accessible formats at no additional cost.

Self-Service Kiosks

Accessibility considerations are included when designing or procuring self-service kiosks.

Employment

Applicants and employees are informed of available accommodations during recruitment and employment. Individual accommodation plans and emergency response measures are implemented as needed.

Public Spaces Design

We comply with accessibility laws when building or making major modifications to public spaces.

Policy Modifications

Any policy that does not respect the principles of dignity, independence, integration, and equal opportunity will be modified or removed.

Message from the legal department

Germain Hotels is committed to meeting the needs of employees and customers with disabilities by identifying, removing, and preventing accessibility barriers. This plan outlines the measures we are taking to comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and to foster inclusivity in our establishments. It will be reviewed and updated at least once every five years.

Section 1: Past Achievements in Accessibility

Customer Service

• Implemented accessibility training for all staff.
• Adopted inclusive customer service policies.
• Established an accessible customer feedback process.

Information and Communications

• Provided information in accessible formats upon request.
• Ensured compliance with WCAG 2.0 Level AA web accessibility standards.
• Developed accessible communication materials.

Employment

• Adopted workplace accommodation policies for employees with disabilities.
• Integrated accessibility into recruitment and onboarding processes.
• Established individualized accommodation plans.

Training

• Conducted ongoing accessibility and diversity training.
• Made accessibility training mandatory for all employees.

Section 2: Strategies and Measures for Future Years

Customer Service

• Continuously enhance accessibility in all establishments.
• Develop new initiatives to improve accessible customer experience.

Information and Communications

• Ensure compliance with future updates to digital accessibility standards.
• Strengthen accessibility options for documents and publications.

Employment

• Evaluate and improve recruitment and retention processes.
• Expand support measures for employees with disabilities.

Public Spaces Design

• Improve accessibility features in hotel facilities.
• Ensure compliance with accessibility regulations for new constructions or renovations.

Monitoring and Updates

This plan will be periodically reviewed to ensure effectiveness. Employees and customers are encouraged to provide feedback for the continuous improvement of accessibility initiatives.