Towards better facilities for elderly, disabled

SIMONE LEON

THIS IS a lamentation steeped in disappointment and vexation, as each time a public event is held the elderly and disabled are left out in the cold. They are unable to attend these events due to a glaring lack of facilities and a complete disregard for their needs by the venues hosting the events. Is it expected that the elderly and disabled should be silently ostracised from society, deprived of the enjoyment of certain activities due to their condition?

For the past two years I have attempted to attend the Emancipation Village with an elderly, disabled family member. Each time, upon arriving at the Queen's Park Savannah, I have been forced to turn back because there were no facilities to park near the entrance of the village, nor any means to push a wheelchair. Clearly, these festivities organised by the Emancipation Support Committee are intended solely for the young and able-bodied. I implore the committee to do better.

I must also mention the National Carnival Commission (NCC), which is responsible for the administration of the Queen's Park Savannah. While the Grand Stand facility is equipped with an elevator and ramps, making it easier to access seating (kudos to the NCC for these considerate additions), the challenge lies in actually reaching these facilities.

There are no designated parking spaces or convenient drop-off points for the disabled to access the facility. On numerous occasions I have had to disembark my elderly, disabled family member by the guard booth with the wheelchair alongside the driveway. I would then go in search of parking, as security does not permit driving into the paved area, despite the visible proof that the individual is unable to walk and is in a wheelchair.

After parking and returning to the sentry post, the wheelchair must be pushed a considerable distance, navigating through the crowd. I beseech the NCC you to do better.

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts holds the responsibility of elevating TT to a premier tourist destination while nurturing its rich cultural and artistic heritage. This mission is pursued through thoughtful policy and strategic interventions, comprehensive research, vigilant trend monitoring, and collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders.

Additionally, the ministry endeavours to raise awareness, all with the ultimate goal of advancing the nation's economic and social progress.

It is imperative to acknowledge that the elderly and disabled, who have significantly contributed to the country's development, should be integral stakeholders in this process. Despite the ministry's involvement in numerous public activities, their needs are often overlooked.

Every festival and event commemorating the nation's cultural milestones should be viewed as opportunities for touristic development. The elderly and disabled are undoubtedly part of the tourism demographic and deserve equal consideration. I earnestly appeal to the ministry to please do better.

Just as I can comfortably bring my elderly disabled family member to vote in local and general elections, thanks to accessible facilities, I believe the same respect and accommodation should be extended to her during public events.

Fortunately, I am not an individual who just complains, but I also come with suggestions:

* Designate several parking spaces near the entrance specifically for vehicles carrying elderly and disabled individuals. These spots should be clearly marked and monitored to ensure they are used appropriately.

* Establish convenient drop-off zones close to the event entrance, allowing drivers to easily drop off elderly or disabled passengers before parking their vehicles. These zones should be clearly signposted and accessible.

* Ensure that all pathways leading to and within the venue are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and smooth surfaces. Additionally, provide clear signage directing attendees to accessible routes and facilities.

* Train security personnel and event staff to be more sensitive to the needs of elderly and disabled individuals. They should be aware of accessibility protocols and be prepared to offer assistance when needed.

* Provide clear, accessible information about the available facilities and services for the elderly and disabled ahead of the event. This could include maps, guides and contact information for assistance.

* Implement a feedback mechanism where attendees can share their experiences and suggestions for improvement. This can help organisers continually enhance accessibility and address any ongoing issues.

* Partner with organisations that advocate for the elderly and disabled to ensure that their needs are met and that best practices for accessibility are followed.

I will continue to support events held at Queen's Hall, the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA) and Naparima Bowl, as they have excelled in catering to the needs of the elderly and disabled. However, to the entities that have fallen short in this regard, I urge you to do better.