Durrant Pate/Contributor

Jamaica is reportedly making steady progress in the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities through the relatively new Disabilities Act.

The three-year-old Act, which came into force on February 14, 2022, providing a comprehensive framework for the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in Jamaica, has as its primary mandate promoting individual dignity, freedom of choice, and independence for persons with disabilities. In addition, the landmark legislation seeks to prevent discrimination based on disability; fostering respect for their differences as integral members of human diversity and ensuring their full and equal participation in all aspects of national life.

In a statement in the House of Representatives Portfolio Minister, Pearnel Charles Jr gave an update on the legislation noting that since the implementation of the Act, the Government has made notable progress in several areas including education, employment, and accessibility. In education, the administration has improved access to quality education for children with disabilities through the Early Stimulation Programme for children six and under as well as the strengthening of Special Education Units within mainstream schools and the provision of support services and accommodations.

In terms of employment and economic empowerment, the government has advanced initiatives promoting inclusive hiring practices and vocational training programs in collaboration with entities like the HEART NSTA Trust view to reduce and eliminate discrimination in employment on the basis of disability. Also, the state has provided grants for persons with disabilities to support their economic activities and has placed persons with disabilities on farms with the Overseas Employment Programme for 2024, paving the way for greater financial independence and participation in the workforce for them.

Complaints received and being investigated

Members of the disabilities have been coming forward with complaints through the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) and the Disabilities Rights Tribunal, where to date, 55 cases have been received, of which 29 have been investigated and resolved. Eight cases have been closed, a similar number referred to the Disabilities Rights Tribunal and one to the Disputes Resolution Foundation. 

Nine are under assessment to determine the next steps. Additionally, Charles Jr advised the Parliament that his Labour and Social Security Ministry has registered approximately 17,130 individuals with disabilities, marking a positive step toward formal recognition and support for these clients. He encouraged all persons with disability to register with the JCPD, which is playing a crucial role advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, maintaining a confidential register, raising public awareness, conducting research, and providing legal assistance to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities are upheld.

Looking ahead

Jamaica’s next report to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is due in 2026 with Minister Charles Jr. reiterating the government’s commitment to adhering strictly to the international standards set forth under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which Jamaica ratified in 2007. Public education and awareness remain key components of the government’s strategy with over 13,000 people participating in public education sessions focused on disability issues.

This has been boosted by efforts through social media, allowing the administration to reach a broader audience and further advocate for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities on a national scale. To address the ongoing concern of accounting for all persons with disabilities in Jamaica, the Ministry through its I Am Able initiative will launch the AbleMap—a comprehensive geotagging database. 

This tool will help the JCPD and other public and private stakeholders locate individuals with disabilities, enabling a more targeted approach. 

Minister Charles Jr. told fellow Members of Parliament that the legislation is now up for review and his ministry is advancing the necessary steps to fulfil this obligation. 

As such, the ministry is inviting all Jamaicans to join in this commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities. “As we the government moves forward, it will continue working on improving access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as improving the physical accessibility across public and private spaces,” Charles Jr said in conclusion.