When the Parliament Buildings were constructed, few provisions were made concerning their accessibility. However, recent efforts have been undertaken to reduce physical impediments throughout the Legislative Precinct. In 2013, a new entrance was unveiled at the front of the buildings to enhance barrier-free access. It was named the Mowat Entrance after Doug Mowat, the first MLA to use a wheelchair while in office, and features a wide, gently curving ramp that exceeds modern building codes and greatly improves accessibility into the Parliament Buildings.
Moving forward, the Parliament Buildings will continue to be adapted to serve as a modern workplace environment, all while ensuring that they retain their original character and splendour.
Doug Mowat was a tireless advocate for those suffering from spinal cord injuries and physical impairments, spending years working with the B.C. Paraplegic Foundation and the B.C. Paraplegic Association. Similarly, the next MLA to use a wheelchair in the Legislative Assembly, Stephanie Cadieux, also worked for the B.C. Paraplegic Association (now SCI-BC) and is herself a strong advocate for those with mobility restrictions both inside and outside of the Assembly.
