Jordan: Disability Rights Act could be strengthened if employers fail to comply

Labour Minister Colin Jordan says the government will consider amending the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act if employers fail to provide members of that community with fair employment opportunities.

He gave the assurance yesterday as he, along with member of parliament Edmund Hinkson, joined representatives of disabled organisations across Barbados in a service at the SDA Church for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Brittons Hill, St Michael.

Labour Minister Colin Jordan speaking during the church service.

The landmark Act was approved in January this year and addresses issues of education, job security, protection against abuse, and transportation for people with disabilities.

As it relates to employment, in particular, Minister Jordan urged members of the community to continue monitoring the situation and to intensify their lobbying if there is no improvement.

“You have to continue the advocacy because having a policy and having the legislation does not mean that we have arrived. We have to make sure it is implemented… We have to make sure that jobs are provided for people with disabilities,” he said.

“Your advocacy will help to keep that on the table and help to propel the government … In other words, if we do not see the pickup in terms of providing employment opportunities, we will go back to the legislation and, if we [think] it necessary, make it compulsory by law. (BT)