KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) has restated its commitment to creating a more inclusive and accessible Jamaica as the nation joined the global observance of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).

This year’s celebration is being recognised under the theme “Rebuilding an Accessible Jamaica for All.”

Speaking at the national public forum held at the Summit in Kingston, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, emphasised that accessibility must be treated as a fundamental right and a key driver of national growth.

“Today, we affirm that accessibility is a right, a national priority, and a core pillar of sustainable development,” the minister said.

“Creating an accessible Jamaica is not the work of just one ministry; it is the work of a nation. When we remove digital, physical, and attitudinal barriers, we expand opportunity for every Jamaican. Our commitment is clear: Inclusion by design.”

Charles Jr noted that with persons with disabilities accounting for approximately 15 per cent of Jamaica’s population, their full inclusion is essential to achieving the goals of Vision 2030. He added that accessibility is not only a moral imperative but also an opportunity to harness innovation, talent, and economic potential.

The forum was moderated by Dr Christine Hendricks, executive director of the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD), who led discussions on accessibility, policy implementation, and disability rights advocacy.

“Today’s public forum is not just a conversation; it is a national call to action,” Dr Hendricks said.

“Universal Design must guide every decision we make as we reconstruct physical spaces, strengthen digital systems, and modernise public services. Accessibility is not an accommodation—it is a fundamental requirement for national development.”

A panel of national stakeholders participated in the discussion, including Charles Jr, Sana Williams of the Architects Association of Jamaica; Alistair McLean of the Office of the Prime Minister; and Marilyn McKoy, executive director of the Jamaica Association for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities.

During the event, the ministry highlighted three key national priorities for improving accessibility:

Digital Inclusion:

Adoption of WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards, digital accessibility audits for major government platforms, and expanded assistive technology training for persons who are blind, low-vision, deaf, or hard of hearing.
Accessible Physical Infrastructure:

Stronger enforcement of the Jamaica Building Code (2023), retrofitting public facilities using the JCPD Accessibility Checklist, and pushing for modernisation of public transportation systems.

Improved Service Delivery and Communication: Increasing the number of certified Jamaican Sign Language interpreters, promoting plain-language communication, and providing disability sensitisation training for frontline public-sector workers.

The International Day for Persons with Disabilities is observed annually on December 3 to promote understanding of disability issues and to advocate for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities worldwide.

(L-R) Hon Pearnel Charles Jr. MP, Minister of Labour and Social Security; Sana Williams, Executive Member, Jamaica Institute of Architects;
Mrs Marilyn McKoy, Executive Director Jamaica Association for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities; Alister McLean, Vice Chairman of the
Combined Disabilities Association.