Gov’t Remains Focused on Safeguarding the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The Government remains steadfast in leading the charge to safeguard the rights of all Jamaicans, including persons with disabilities, and further enhancing their social inclusion.

Addressing the virtual staging of the Jamaica Employers’ Federation (JEF) 40th annual Business and Workplace Convention on Thursday (May 16), Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., said the Disabilities Act, which came into effect on February 14, 2022, marked another milestone in the country’s journey towards social inclusion for all citizens.

He added that it signaled the Government’s unwavering commitment to the global principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“Since becoming Minister, I have connected persons with disabilities to our overseas employment programme and we have two that are already accepted… and two more that are working now to be hired in that programme.

“So, we have to show, not just in terms of policy and legislation but in terms of the decisions that we make, that we are advancing inclusion in our country. It is critical and I want to encourage you to do your part,” Mr. Charles said.

The Minister urged more employers to recruit persons with disabilities in the push towards a more inclusive society, and used the opportunity to laud organisations already doing so.

“I want to challenge you to take steps towards evaluating hiring persons with disabilities to work in your organisations. Hire them, not just as entry-level staff, but at every level of your organisations, in keeping with their capabilities… . They may serve as your best employees. We have found, for persons who have taken that leap, that they are reaping rewards now, and I want to congratulate those of you who are already experiencing that reality,” Mr. Charles said.

The Disabilities Act makes provisions to safeguard and enhance the welfare of persons with disabilities across Jamaica.