We believe that continued unrestricted approval and growth of self serve stations will seriously restrict access and may impose additional financial burdens to persons with disabilities unable to access self serve stations despite proposed legislation to regulate gasoline prices.

We request additional regulation that would require high volume stations to have a minimum of one full service attendant during all hours of operation. This type of operation could be conducted on a rotational basis coordinated by service stations and gasoline companies. Policy of this kind would ensure that a minimum of 1-2 station in a given area is able to provide the public with full service.

This would also benefit gas stations and oil companies who could profit from 20% of the adult population of Nova Scotia that has a disability. We understand that economic pressures are a factor in business decisions. However, business decisions must also reflect concern for human rights. We urge you to follow through with these ideas to improve accessibility for residents, visitors and business in Nova Scotia

Vehicles allow people with disabilities residing or visiting to remain autonomous and travel freely throughout Nova Scotia. The trend towards self-serve stations creates an obstacle for drivers with disabilities. Analysis of data demonstrates that from 2003 and September 2005 the following changes have occurred:

• Attended only stations have decreased by 20.1%(32 stations)