Hon. Sharon Carstairs:

Honourable senators, two weeks ago, I had the great privilege to visit CanAssist at the University of Victoria. This incredible organization is dedicated to improving the lives of those with disabilities, young and old alike, and it is engaged in a wonderful partnership at the university.

I met the staff including engineers and computer technicians who work together to create and distribute customized assistive technologies and devices. Let me describe some of the projects that I observed.

An iPod had been enhanced to allow brain-damaged individuals to function by prompting them as to how to perform certain tasks — for example, how to use the coffee maker — press the iPod; how to make the coffee — press the iPod; how to get to the office — press the iPod; and how to get to the gym.

I saw the same iPod adapted to be used by quadriplegics so they can enjoy the music they want by simply raising their eyebrows. The client in this case wears a chic headband with sensors invisible to others, but these sensors are so sensitive that they can detect the raised eyebrow.

I saw another device that allowed a severely disabled man to play catch with his dog. By a simple movement, he could fire balls 100 metres by activating a simple device on the side of his wheelchair.

I saw a project that enabled a non-computer-literate 90-year-old to use Skype simply by touching a picture image of the person with whom she wanted to speak, thereby enhancing her ability to remain in contact with family and friends and, similarly, they can contact her.

Technology is becoming so much a part of our everyday lives. It was a delight to see how these technologies can be adapted for the disabled by making products that enable these Canadians to lead lives similar to that of able-bodied Canadians.

I congratulate the University of Victoria and CanAssist for this remarkable program.

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