KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) is calling on authorities to expedite payment to a blind citizen who toppled over a bridge in Kingston in 2015.

A news release from the PNP disclosed that the blind man, identified as Carlo Bruce, suffered severe injuries during the incident and the matter was brought to the attention of the Combined Disabilities Association (CDA) and the Public Defender, who made representation on his behalf to the relevant authorities.

The Opposition’s deputy spokesperson on labour and social security, Senator Floyd Morris said the Kingston and St Andrew Corporation accepted liability for the matter and the sum of $1.1 million was agreed to be paid to Bruce.

However, Morris said that since that agreement, the payment has not been made and efforts by the Public Defender to collect the payment for Bruce have been futile.

Morris today urged Mayor of the KSAC, Senator Delroy Williams, to use his office, to “expedite the payment for this poor and vulnerable citizen”.

He also called on Minister of Local Government, Desmond McKenzie, to ensure that the resources are made available to the KSAC to effect this specific payment to Bruce and to simultaneously conduct repairs to all bridges and manholes within the city that are hazardous to the life of people with disabilities and other citizens.

Morris also called on the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Shahine Robinson, to ensure that the Disabilities Act 2014 is brought into effect this legislative year.

The Disabilities Act makes provision for the establishment of a Disability Rights Tribunal to adjudicate matters relating to the violation of the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

This legislation, according to Morris, will ensure that there is a greater responsiveness and sensitivity to the needs of persons with disabilities in Jamaica.