THE GOVERNMENT is taking steps to amend the law to allow deaf persons to obtain driver's licences.

For years, the issue of whether the deaf should be allowed to go behind a steering wheel has been the subject of intense debate, with some arguing that this could pose a challenge to other motorists.

But State Minister for Labour and Social Security, Andrew Gallimore, told parliamentarians in Gordon House yesterday that the current administration was determined to give the deaf the green light to drive in Jamaica.

He argued that many countries around the globe have passed legislation allowing deaf persons to hold driver's licences.

In anticipation of this move, the Government is providing basic and advanced training in sign language for 25 inspectors from the Island Traffic Authority.

"The Government is taking action on their part," Gallimore stressed.

In his contribution to the 2008/2009 Sectoral Debate, Gallimore also announced the establishment of a registry for persons with disabilities, as well as a registry for senior citizens, 60 years and over.