Ottawa's transit committee has decided not to make a decision on a push to restrict strollers on city buses.
Instead of making a recommendation to city council, the transit committee will forward councillors an existing policy developed by the committee in November.
That policy is outlined as:
- Requiring parents to move into wheelchair positions if space is available.
- Allowing strollers in the aisle if a wheelchair position is not available -- as long as the strollers don't interfere with the safe movement of other passengers.
- If a stroller is in a wheelchair position, and someone boards the bus in a wheelchair or on a motorized scooter, the rider with the stroller would be required to move.
However, seniors and accessibility groups say that's not enough.
Rather, they want rules to restrict strollers on buses, making space at the front of the bus a priority for seniors and disabled residents.
"We are recommending fold and stow at all times. At the present time, there are a number of people with disabilities who are being left behind at the bus stops," said accessibility advocate Catherine Gardner.
However, parents who regularly ride the bus say folding up their strollers would hinder them from being able to get around the city easily.
They say it's too difficult to fold up a stroller while they have a child in their arms.
At least one city councillor says the debate is pitting groups against each other, and is calling for a common-sense approach.
"You know what, it's jammed. It's uncomfortable - so what? Move around. Apologize. Make space, that's what people do on every bus I've ever been on," said Coun. Clive Doucet.
The issue will be back before council next week. However, strollers will only be discussed if a councillor puts forward a motion on the issue.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Carol Anne Meehan
