International Guide Dog Day 2022

That this House recognises April 27th as International Guide Dog Day; recognises International Guide Dog Day marks the establishment of the International Federation of Guide Dog (IFGD) Associations in April 1989, notes this is a yearly opportunity to celebrate the work of guide dogs around the world and raise awareness of the importance of guide dog services to help people with visual impairments; applauds the twenty-seven thousand IFGD volunteers around the globe for their work in bringing guide dog services to fruition and also the twenty-thousand UK based voluntary Guide Dog campaigners who work tirelessly to raise awareness and understanding of Guide Dogs in the UK; further highlights that the UK still has a lot to do in making it’s transport, streets and general spaces accessible for disabled people; understands that research from Guide Dogs UK shows 75 per cent of assistance dog owners have been refused entry to a restaurant, shop or taxi; and calls on the House to ensure streets and public spaces are safe for everyone, including those with sight loss and their guide dogs.