New Directions settles human rights dispute with RM
A human rights dispute has been settled between New Directions and the Rural Municipality of Springfield.
New Directions wanted to convert an existing home on Aspen Glen Road, just east of Winnipeg. into a residence for up to three adults with intellectual disabilities.
But at the time, in 2010, the RM said the group would have to apply to have the area rezoned from rural residential to institutional.
The municipality considered the residence to be a group home, whereas New Directions said it was a home for three individuals living together.
New Directions filed a human rights complaint, claiming the RM's decision over the zoning of the property violated two sections of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The Manitoba Human Rights Commission says a settlement has been reached and the RM will have to change some bylaws to ensure they are not discriminatory.