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Let’s make proper provisions for the disabled

Published:Saturday | February 23, 2019 | 12:00 AM

THE EDITOR, Sir:

In response to the above-mentioned caption published in The Gleaner on Thursday, February 21, 2019, by a concerned citizen, I fully endorse the concerns raised in the letter.

For years, physically disabled persons, especially those who are mobile only with wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, and other aids and appliances, have been inconvenienced to the point of becoming frustrated when trying to conduct businesses in some government and other private entities.

As a physically disabled citizen, weakness in lower limbs, I recently had to go to the Courts office in Spanish Town, only to discover that the entrance has about three steps but no rails. This was very difficult for me, and as such, I had to ask someone to assist me.

To access my place of work, I have to climb two flights of steps daily. Even though there are rails, it is extremely hard for me as well as others who are able-bodied.

Numerous letters were written by me to the relevant authorities regarding the malfunctioning elevator, which is out of service over four years now.

My orthopaedic consultant asked that I be relocated to the ground floor of the building. I am finally relocated upon resumption of duties on February 11, 2019.

I want to use this medium to thank the persons who made this possible, especially Mrs Portia Magnus, Mrs Dannet Stewart-Green, and the team from the Ministry of Labour & Social Security. Also, kudos to those who have exercised patience and resilience over the years.

LESMA COOTE

Eltham Park

Spanish Town

lecoote@yahoo.com