KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC—The Ministry of Labour says it will intensify efforts to advance the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in Jamaica.
Portfolio Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. made the disclosure while addressing the handover of care packages by the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) earlier this week.
“Our goal is to advance a rigorous and comprehensive national program to develop more understanding across Jamaica of persons with disabilities and to promote their well-being and rights,” he said.
The Minister noted the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling society for persons with disabilities and guaranteeing respect for all through the passage of legislation and other measures.
He cited several initiatives undertaken in 2024 to ensure greater inclusion for the disabled community, including incorporating persons in the Overseas Employment Programme. “They are doing an amazing job,” he pointed out.
\Cheshire Village is a 20-house community for persons with disabilities.
The JCPD distributes food packages to householders every year during the Christmas holiday.
The initiative aims to address the needs of residents who are
predominantly unemployed or under-employed, ensuring they have provisions for the festive period.
The JCPD also collaborated with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to deliver special packages to households that include children with disabilities.
“We are grateful,” said Acting President of the Cheshire Village Citizen Association, Estella Campbell, in welcoming the donation of items from the JCPD.
She also welcomed the Ministry’s increased focus on creating an inclusive society for persons with disabilities.
Executive Director of the JCPD, Dr. Christine Hendricks, noted the “consistent” efforts by the Government to ensure that persons with disabilities can live independently and that their rights and dignity are as respected as everyone else in the society.”
The JCPD is an agency of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. Its mission is to ensure that persons with disabilities are treated fairly and equally and enjoy the same fundamental rights as other people.
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