[UPDATED] President: Many challenges for people with disabilities

Disability is a cross-cutting issue and ought to be taken into account at all stages of policy-making, said President Paula-Mae Weekes, in a statement on International Day for Persons with Disabilities, to be observed on Tuesday.

In a release, Weekes said the day promoted awareness, understanding and acceptance of people who live with disabilities and mobilised support for the creation of an inclusive and accessible society for all.

She said according to the UN, approximately 15 per cent of the global population lived with some form of disability, 80 per cent of them in developing countries.

“People living with disabilities experience many challenges in their daily lives, including lack of access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities and leisure activities,” Weekes said.

Everyone must play their part in upholding the rights of people with disabilities so this country will be well on its way to achieving the objectives of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and ensuring that no one is left behind, she urged.

She said it was everyone’s duty to create opportunities for inclusion for those with disabilities and to remove all barriers which prevented them from living in dignity and comfort.

“With greater investment in their health, education and skills, they will be better equipped to contribute effectively to their community and nation.

“The theme of this year’s observance focuses on the inclusive, equitable and sustainable development of people with disabilities as set out in the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda."

Weekes said inadequate legislation, stigma and lack of interest in issues surrounding disability undercut efforts to ensure that people who are differently-abled can participate on a full and equal basis in society.

This story has been adjusted to include additional details. See original post below.

Disability is a cross-cutting issue and ought to be taken into account at all stages of policy-making, said President Paula-Mae Weekes, in a statement on International Day for Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3.

In a release, Weekes said the day promotes awareness, understanding and acceptance of people who live with disabilities and mobilises support for the creation of an inclusive and accessible society for all.

She said according to the United Nations, approximately 15 per cent of the global population lives with some form of disability, 80 per cent of them in developing countries.

“People living with disabilities experience many challenges in their daily lives, including lack of access to healthcare, education, employment opportunities and leisure activities,” Weekes said.