KINGSTON, Jamaica — Shadow Minister on Gender Affairs, Persons with Disabilities & Inclusion Denise Daley, has expressed concern regarding the lack of accessibility for people with disabilities at public and private institutions.

In a release on Friday, Daley noted that the two-year window for public entities, private businesses, and institutions to retrofit their buildings for enhanced accessibility for individuals with disabilities, as mandated by the Disabilities Act, concluded on Wednesday. She said despite the enactment of the Disabilities Act in 2014 and the approval of regulations in 2022, marking a significant milestone for safeguarding the rights of people with disabilities, many institutions including Gordon House, remain inaccessible to wheelchair users and those with permanent or temporary disabilities.

According to the release, the expiration of the compliance window raises questions about the commitment of Parliament to uphold the principles embedded in the Disabilities Act.

Daley in emphasising the need for immediate action, stressed that access to public spaces and services is a fundamental right for people with disabilities. She highlighted the importance of inclusivity in all sectors of society, urging stakeholders in the public and private sectors, including schools, churches, government agencies, and businesses, to prioritise accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

“For too long, persons with disabilities have faced barriers in accessing basic services and participating fully in society. It is imperative that we ensure equal access for all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities,” Daley said, as she  called on all entities to proactively implement measures to improve accessibility and remove obstacles that prevent people  with disabilities from fully participating in all aspects of life.