Ministry of Labour & Social Security Urges Caution in Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities
Communication Unit
1F North Street, Kingston
Tel: (876) 967-5484
Fax: (876) 948-2831
Monday, July 13, 2023
Ministry of Labour & Social Security Urges Caution in Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security takes note of recent concerns raised on Social Media regarding an alleged report of discrimination against a minor with a disability.
The Ministry is reminding members of the public that the Disabilities Act (2014) and its Regulations, which came into full effect on February 14, 2022, provide for the protection of Persons with Disabilities against discrimination in all forms, and that its provisions are enforceable by law.
The Ministry is also reaffirming that the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) has been established as the lead public body to uphold and protect the rights of Persons with Disabilities in Jamaica. Persons with Disabilities who have experienced discrimination by virtue of their disability are strongly encouraged to come forward and report their experiences to the JCPD, to enable the appropriate investigations into these matters.
Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., is appealing to Jamaicans to treat Persons with Disabilities with the greatest level of care and respect, and to ensure their full access to participation in all spheres of society.
“We firmly believe that every person, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be treated with respect and fairness. There should be no limitation or prevention in accessing any social services as this is a breach of Human Rights. Our society must be more accommodating to ensure equal access for Persons with Disabilties” Minister Charles said.
The Ministry, through the JCPD, will continue to raise awareness about Disability Rights while empowering Persons with Disabilities and the various stakeholder groups to continue advocacy to achieve greater inclusivity.
The JCPD stands ready to assist individuals, employers and institutions in explaining the Accessibility Checklist available on the JCPD’s Website at www.jcpd.gov.jm; to help you to accommodate or make reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities.
Members of the Public are invited to report any incident of discrimination to the JCPD by contacting (876) 968-8373/968-0623/618-1133, or by visiting the Council’s offices at 10 Ripon Road, Kingston 5. The public is also invited to visit the JCPD’s Website at www.jcpd.gov.jm to learn more.
A Child with disability engages in a learning and teaching experience while using his tablet
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