Message from the Minister of Labour and Social Security

Mrs. Carole Fox delivering the Message from the Minister of Labour and Social Security, The Honourable Andrew Gallimore

MESSAGE
FROM

HONOURABLE ANDREW GALLIMORE

MINISTER OF STATE
MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY

 
 
We congratulate the Jamaica Association for the Deaf on its 70th anniversary. Its achievement of giving a voice to the deaf community is unparalleled. Through your tireless efforts the transformation process has started. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing have made significant contributions through technology, teaching, cosmetology, dance etc. 

Clearly, global trends related to issues pertaining to disability are making it imperative that greater understanding be pursued in how we treat persons with disabilities in Jamaica. We are now seeing a greater shift in providing an accessible environment for persons with disabilities across the world. Consequently, Jamaica must reshape its landscape towards mainstreaming the gamut of persons with disabilities. 

It is my hope that as we focus on  the implementation of the development programs laid out in the 2008/2009 Budget, that more persons with disabilities including those who are deaf and hard of hearing will become even more visible in the workforce and in our education system. In support of your hard work over the years, I pledge that this Administration remains wholeheartedly committed to the delivery of the necessary programmes and initiatives that will help persons who are deaf or hard of hearing to make meaningful contributions to the growth and development of our country.