The umbrella body of labour unions here has embarked on a year-long programme to secure employment for the disabled.
The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) today announced that it was partnering with the National Council for the Disabled, the National Disability Unit and the Barbados National Organization of the Disabled on the initiative that would help people with disabilities achieve a certain level of independence.
“The CTUSAB proposed to work in collaboration with the stakeholders in promoting the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It is intended that emphasis will be placed on the aspects of education and awareness,” General Secretary Dennis De Peiza told a news conference this morning to launch the programme dubbed Employment of Workers with Disabilities.
De Peiza said he expected the initiative to result in greater acceptance of all persons with disabilities, and in so doing, lead to them being given equal opportunities to develop their skills and talents and to access promotional opportunities in the workplace without prejudice or reservation.
The trade union leader also said the organization would like employers to develop a greater appreciation for workers with disabilities, and the general public to recognize that the disabled possess the same productive potential as everyone else.
He added that in the absence of statistical evidence, “it may not be so apparent that the work of disabled persons is to be found in every sector of employment in Barbados”.
Therefore, he called on the Ministry of Labour to provide labour market information on the number of persons with disabilities who are seeking employment, as well as the number of those who work.
The CTUSAB head revealed that a number of activities would be held this year, beginning with a workshop on April 11 under the theme Empowering and Engaging Workers with Disabilities, followed by a fun and health walk on National Heroes Day, April 28. A national symposium is also scheduled for July 13 and 14 and the curtains will come down with a show in November featuring workers with disabilities.
Article Compliments: Barbados Today
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