A change to the Canadian National Exhibition’s (CNE) admission policy means people with disabilities will now have to pay the full price for an entrance ticket this year.
“We are seeking to align our policy with those in place at other attractions and events in the region,” said a statement on the CNE’s website.
CNE organizers say accompanying support workers will still be permitted at no cost.
In prior years, people with disabilities would be allowed to enter the CNE grounds for free. A general admission ticket for someone between 14 to 64 years of age is $18 while seniors 65 or older pay $15.
Major tourist attractions in Toronto follow similar admission guidelines. The Ontario Science Centre and Ripley’s Aquarium both charge people with disabilities the full admission price while the Toronto Zoo offers at 50 per cent discount.
The CNE, which attracts more than 1 million visitors annually over an 18 day period, takes place this year from Aug. 19 to Sept. 5.