Re: FN-FORUM: Websites for the disabled

date posted 8th January 2008 11:48

Gary Short wrote:
> -------- Original Message --------
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>> From: Phillip Healey [EMAIL REMOVED]
>> Sent: 08 January 2008 11:23
>> To: "FN-FORUM / [EMAIL REMOVED] [EMAIL REMOVED]
>> Subject: RE: FN-FORUM: Websites for the disabled
>>
>>
>>> I have confirmed this view with the DRC and they agree that it is correct,
>>>
>> providing the web site is not the means by >which a service provider is
>> satisfying his/her obligations under the act for a service he/she provides.
>>
>> I disagree.
>>
>
> You are, of course, welcome to disagree and hold your own opinion instead. However, that will not change the fact that the DRC are the subject matter experts in the area and I have checked with them, and they have agreed that my position is the correct one.
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Oh for goodness sake, read the act:

2.13 - 2.17 (p11-13): “What services are affected by the Disability
Discrimination Act? An airline company provides a flight reservation and
booking service to the public on its website. This is a provision of a
service and is subject to the act.”

While there is as yet no specific case precedent, meaning the
ramifications of the law are undefined at present, the intent is
extremely clear.

Your friends at the DRC have investigated over 1000 websites, and issued
warnings that they may fall foul of the DDA, odd that they should take a
differing position with yourself.

Until there is decent precedent in this country, the law will remain
unclear - but just because the act has yet to be applied in court, there
can be no assumption that lack of accessibility is legal.

FWIW, while not a practicing lawyer, I do possess a law degree.