Equal rights for everyone
published: Wednesday | February 23, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE DREAM and philosophy stated by the United Nations is that individuals with disabilities should take their rightful place in their respective societies and be accorded the dignity and equality that others in the society enjoy. They should have equal opportunities in the social and economic life of their communities and have access to the resources and support to enable them to participate.

During the year 2004, the United Nations ranked Jamaica fourth among the top five countries in the Americas for its treatment of and provision of opportunities for the disabled. Other countries included in the ranking were Brazil, the United States, Canada and Costa Rica.
However, where legislation is concerned, plans were put in motion to have the national policy for persons with disabilities enacted by the end of 2004/2005 legislative year. The policy addresses education and employment, training, family life, housing and accessibility amongst other issues which affect disabled persons. I think that Jamaican lawmakers have ignored persons with disability rights and dismissed the policy ­ equal rights for everyone.

Bless you.

I am, etc.,

ERRINGTON PELLINGTON

Founder

The Paraplegic Development

and Outreach Foundation Ltd.

(PARADOF)