Ontario Human Rights Commission regrets Famous Players decision to close theatres

For immediate publication

Toronto - Reacting to an implementation plan submitted by Famous Players Theatres in accordance with an earlier decision by a Board of Inquiry, Chief Commissioner Keith Norton stated, "The fact that Famous Players has decided to close the three theatres affected by the Board order well ahead of the deadlines set out by the Board, suggests that this decision is economically motivated. I am disappointed by this decision as it deprives local moviegoers from accessing services at these theatres. Clearly, the closings are based on economic reasons and not related to the decision of the Board."

In September, the Board of Inquiry ordered Famous Players Theatres to make the Eglinton Theatre accessible to persons with disabilities by Sept 2003 and the Backstage Theatre by September 2002. In its decision, Famous Players plans to close the Eglinton Theatre by April 1, 2002 and the Backstage Theatre by December 14, 2001. They have also decided to sell the Uptown Theatre property for redevelopment and close the theatre.

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