SANDALS Resorts International says it has continued to break new ground as it moves to have its divers certified in safely engaging divers with disabilities.

Five scuba instructors across Sandals Negril, Beaches Negril, and Sandals South Coast will receive the Open Water Dive Buddy scuba certification) from the Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA). This is the entity responsible for supporting and improving the physical and social well-being of people with disabilities. through the sport of scuba diving.

This comes as the instructors recently completed a four-day training session in the course, a release said.

The certification allows the individuals to understand and dive safely with individuals who have a wide range of disabilities.

The HSA certification ensures that these divers will become the only scuba instructors in the region with that qualifications, as Sandals is the only resort in Jamaica taking steps in opening their water sports doors to individuals with disabilities.

“This is very forward-thinking; this is the future. Within the tourism industry, there are veterans and others who enjoyed diving but are unable to dive because of various disabilities. It says something about Sandals when you can cater to people in such a big way,” said HSA trainer Mark Rausch.

Rausch, who lost his son to cystic fibrosis five years ago at age 18, started the training after his son was born.

He admitted it was his son’s condition that sparked the fire within him.

“I found out about the HSA when my child was born with that condition (cystic fibrosis). I thought about how I could give back and deposit into the lives of other people, and since then I have been travelling the world offering this training,” he said.

“I reached out to a number of resorts and Sandals was perhaps the only resort that was willing to get started on this,” Rausch added.

Glenroy Graham, scuba instructor at Beaches Negril, applauds the company for being pioneers in this worthwhile venture.

“Hospitality and tourism is really about diversity, and I am humbled to know that I am part of a team that does not only cater for abled individuals. Everyone deserves to dive, and now I’m certified to ensure they do,” Graham said.