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Ms. Althea Guishard, Administrative Officer in the Ministry of Health and Social Development presents Mr. Colin Matthew with a token of appreciation from the ministry. Photo Credit: Department of Information and Public Relations
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Roadtown, Tortola - The Ministry of Health and Social Development continued with its local celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities by hosting a commemorative luncheon for persons with disabilities and their caregivers at The Moorings Mariner Inn on Monday.
In his remarks, Premier Honourable Ralph T O’Neal, OBE, provided a brief account of the development of the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre which caters to the educational development of persons with special needs and stated that he was pleased to see that the Ministry of Health and Social Development had initiated the Disability Policy Project.
Minister of Health and Social Development Honourable Dancia Penn, OBE, QC, in her address, applauded the work of the various agencies in the Territory that supported persons with disabilities.
The Health Minister then provided a brief synopsis of the Disability Policy Project stating that it will entail, among other things, the review and assessment of the disability employment policy, disability benefits, and the development of legislation to better serve persons with disabilities living in the Territory.
Honourable Penn further explained that the project commenced in August 2008 under the supervision of the Disability Project Advisor, Ms. Lenette Mactavious and commended her for the excellent work done thus far.
The Disability Policy Advisor said she was “pleased with the support and attendance of the parents and caregivers and other members of the community as it demonstrated the renewed partnership going forward in the development of the disability policy”.
Ms. Mactavious stated that ”the support of the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Development and the staff of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, along with the commitment of the entire Government, is a clear indication of their pledge to provide improved service to meet the needs of persons with disabilities.” ~~Adz:Right~~
The commemorative luncheon was one of three special events organised by the ministry to observe International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Specially invited guests included members of the House of Assembly, public officers, persons with disabilities, their caregivers, as well as parents and caregivers of children with special needs.
The annual observance of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise 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 Ministry of Health and Social Development endeavours to provide leadership which promotes health, social wellness and a safe environment as positive resources for maintaining healthy lifestyles. Among other things, the ministry is responsible for safe-guarding the health and social development of the Territory.
