Georgetown: Almost seven percent of the Guyanese population suffers from a disability of some sort, representing approximately 50,000 individuals. However, even as the world over, Guyana being no exception, prepares to commemorate International Day of People with Disabilities tomorrow, the National Commission on Disability is reminding that every Guyanese has a significant role in the implementation of the Persons with Disability Act.
Guyana first celebrated International Day of Persons with Disabilities last year by the signing of the Persons with Disability Act, forever enshrining the rights and freedoms of the disabled population in law.
The Guyana Constitution mandates the state to "take legislative and other measures" designed to protect disadvantaged persons and persons with disabilities. Former Executive President, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, was tasked with signing the Persons with Disabilities Act which provides for equal protection under the law. The Act stipulates that “the National Commission on Disabilities shall comprise 12 members appointed by the president; it charges the commission with advising the government, coordinating actions on issues affecting persons with disabilities, and addressing implementation and monitoring of the act's provisions”.
The legislation also speaks to the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities and focuses on seven key rights including the rights to education, health, independence, employment, recreation and participation in the political process and access.
Tomorrow the observation will be characterised by the National Commission on Disability calling on members of the public to remember their role in the implementation of the crucial legislation and to ensure “we are all working for and alongside persons with disabilities to achieve inclusive, sustainable and equitable development in Guyana and attain together a better world for all.”
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