The City of Owen Sound is announcing that as of May 1st, 2017 the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre and Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre will be Nut-Aware facilities as per By-Law 2017-40.

The Anaphylaxis Policy aims to provide procedures for the management of Anaphylaxis related to nuts and nut products at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre and the Bayshore Community Centre following a request for accommodation. Policy CS83 is in compliance with the Provincial Policy on Ableism and Discrimination which recognizes Anaphylaxis as a disability under Human Rights Legislation. The policy is aimed at reducing the risks for those with Anaphylaxis, however; the City cannot guarantee a 100% nut-free environment.

"As a Municipality, we have a legal responsibility to accommodate users with potentially life threatening allergies, as we would any other person with a disability." stated Pam Coulter, Director of Community Services. "The City of Owen Sound will continue to work to ensure our recreation facilities are an open and inviting place where members of our community feel included and safe."

The City has implemented several measures alongside the policy, including an individualized plan that is to be filled out by any user with Anaphylaxis and then submitted to the City. Copies of the Anaphylaxis Policy and individualized plan as well as a frequently asked questions page are accessible on the City's website www.owensound.ca.

"City staff has worked diligently in the implementation of this policy." said City of Owen Sound Mayor, Ian Boddy. "Providing accessible, safe and inclusive recreation facilities is a priority for the City and we appreciate the cooperation from users and our community partners in the implementation of this policy."

The City has placed signage at the entrances of the Bayshore Community Centre and Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre and also launched a social media campaign to better educate users and increase awareness regarding the Anaphylaxis Policy.

source: media release, City of Owen Sound