LOCAL MP Liz Saville Roberts is backing a campaign to tackle discrimination against guide dog owners.

Liz Saville Roberts is backing a campaign after UK-wide figures revealed that three out of four guide dog owners have been turned away because of their dog.

It is against the law to refuse access to a disabled person accompanied by a guide dog, except in the most exceptional circumstances. Despite this, a survey by Guide Dogs for the Blind found that three out of four (76 per cent) guide dog owners had been turned away because of their dog.

The Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP is supporting calls for an overhaul of equality legislation so that businesses that refuse access to guide dogs face the consequences of the law.

Ms Saville Roberts MP said: “It was disturbing to hear how common these incidents of discrimination are for guide dog owners. No one should be turned away on their local high street because of their guide dog.

“The law is very clear that guide dog owners have the same rights as anyone else to shop, take a taxi or visit their local restaurant.

“However research shows that guide dog owners are regularly refused access. When you are reliant on a guide dog to get around, businesses that refuse to allow them access are effectively slamming the door in your face.

“I am pleased to support Guide Dogs Access All Areas campaign to tackle the ignorance that causes access refusals, and make sure businesses in my constituency and across Wales are held accountable when they occur.”

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