News
TCIG OBSERVES INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 2023
#TurksandCaicos, December 5, 2023 – The Ministry of Health and Human Services, through the Aged Care and Rehabilitation Department, joins the rest of the world on Sunday, 3rd December 2023 in observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities under the theme: “United in action to rescue and achieve the SDGs for, with and by persons with disabilities”.
The annual observance was proclaimed in 1992, by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. The observance of the Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
The Government has focused on 5 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals that zero in on disability. The department continues to lead and participate in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, inclusive of and not limited to the following:
- Guarantee equal and accessible education by building inclusive learning environments and providing the needed assistance for persons with disabilities.
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Emphasizing the social economic and political inclusion of persons with disabilities.
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Creating accessible and green public spaces.
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Promoting inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment allowing persons with disabilities to fully access the job market.
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Underlining the importance of data collection and monitoring of the SDG’s with emphasis placed on disaggregated data on disabilities.
Hon. Shaun Malcom, Minister of Health and Human Services, stated that: “My government is committed to strengthening services and programs for adults with special needs in the Turks and Caicos Islands through various programmes, inclusive of establishing a residential Aged Care and Special Needs Facility in North/Middle Caicos and the enhancement of current residential homes focusing on all aspects of healthier aging.”
The World Health Organization recognizes that a world where all people attain the highest possible standard of health and well-being is only possible if health systems are inclusive of people with disabilities and further states that countries need to shift towards a service delivery system rooted in the communities, reaching out and empowering people with disabilities.
Ms. Betty-Ann Been, Director of Aged Care and Rehabilitation stated, “We cannot leave anybody behind; this will be strengthened by the establishment of the Community Based Rehabilitation Programme in the fourth quarter of this financial year, with a two-day workshop for adults with special needs.”
Persons are encouraged to contact the Office at 649-338-2171 for inquiries or further information on the programme and services.