Strong appeals were made in the Senate on Wednesday for meaningful protections, equality, and legislative reform for persons with disabilities in Trinidad and Tobago.
Independent Senator Alicia Pauline Lalite-Ettienne, who is visually impaired, piloted a Private Motion calling for a Comprehensive National Strategic Plan for Persons with Disabilities.
She shared that despite decades of promises, persons with disabilities remain unprotected, and without domestic legislation, international conventions remain symbolic, leaving thousands at risk of discrimination.
“Persons with disabilities in Trinidad and Tobago, who represent the largest minority group in the world, still face attitudinal, structural, institutional barriers, and these barriers could all be eliminated by legislation.”
Senator Lalite-Ettienne said that for many persons with disabilities, the biggest challenge isn’t their impairment.
“We have to face negative perceptions as well. So we face barriers also to social inclusion, opportunity, health and safety, and finance. And the reason for this, all of this we have to incur, is because of lack of the prioritising of legislation.”
Meanwhile, Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, Vandana Mohit, agreed that disability inclusion is urgent but insists that significant work continues to be done.
“Mr. President, to my colleague who tabled this Motion, I understand what you’re calling for, but I want to share with you in this chamber today, in this august House, that what you are calling for is already being worked on and implemented by this government. So I understand the need for demanding urgency, but I want to share that you are demanding urgency for what is already being delivered and worked on.”
Minister Mohit confirmed that the long-awaited Persons with Disabilities Bill has already been drafted, vetted, and is moving toward the legislative stage.
“The objective of this Bill is to ensure that such provisions align with international standards outlined by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Furthermore, Mr. President, the Bill will assist in promoting social inclusion and equal opportunities, aiming to create an environment that fosters accessibility, integration, and full participation of persons with disabilities.”
According to Minister Mohit, the government is committed to creating a Trinidad and Tobago where no citizen is left behind.