By Faith Edwards

As citizens of Trinidad and Tobago prepare to vote in the upcoming general elections on April 28, the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association (TTBWA) is urging all candidates to make a firm commitment to improving the lives of persons who are blind or visually impaired across the nation. 

In a release on Monday, it stated, “Persons with visual impairments continue to face significant challenges that hinder their full participation in society. These barriers must be addressed in a comprehensive manner, with a focus on equal access to education, healthcare, employment and social inclusion.” 

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In light of this, the TTBWA respectfully calls on all candidates to clearly outline their positions on the following critical issues affecting the blind and visually impaired community in Trinidad and Tobago: 

1. Early Detection and Diagnosis of Blindness and Visual Impairment in Children Early intervention is critical to enhancing the quality of life for children with visual impairments. The TTBWA calls for: 

• The establishment of comprehensive systems for early detection and diagnosis of children with visual impairments, including those who could benefit from corrective measures. 

• Timely identification and access to corrective services like glasses or surgery. 

• Specialised rehabilitation services for children whose conditions cannot be corrected, ensuring they receive the support needed to thrive. 

2. Accessible Transportation for Persons with Visual Impairments Mobility remains a significant challenge for individuals with visual impairments. They urge candidates to support: 

• The development of accessible public transportation systems equipped with tactile and auditory aids, such as tactile maps and bus announcements. 

• Improved infrastructure to ensure safe and efficient transportation for persons with mobility aids, promoting independence and autonomy. 

3. Access to Education and Educational Resources Education is a fundamental right for all children, including those with visual impairments. They seek your support for: 

• The provision of Braille textbooks, assistive technology, and digital resources to ensure that students with visual impairments can access the full range of educational content. 

• A well-trained workforce of educators skilled in supporting students with visual disabilities. 

• Accessible educational facilities, including installing Braille signage and using materials in alternative formats (Braille, large print, audio, and digital). 

4. Enhancing Access to Tourism and Cultural Sites Persons with visual impairments should have equal access to the rich cultural and tourism offerings of Trinidad and Tobago. They urge: 

• The implementation of accessibility improvements at cultural and tourist sites, such as tactile markers and audio guides, to make these spaces navigable for all. 

5. Overcoming Attitudinal Barriers to Employment One of the most significant barriers to employment for persons with disabilities is negative perceptions. They call on candidates to: 

• Promote workplace awareness and inclusivity, ensuring that persons with visual impairments are not only given equal opportunities but also recognized for their full potential. 

• Encourage employers to adopt inclusive hiring practices and accessible work environments. 

6. Financial Support and Grants for Persons with Disabilities Financial independence is a key factor in the social inclusion of persons with visual impairments. The TTBWA urges: 

• The provision of grants to assist individuals with visual impairments in accessing education, securing employment, and participating in society. 

7. Representation in Government: Appointing a Person with Visual Impairment to the Senate Inclusive representation in government is essential for the development of policies that directly benefit the disability community. They respectfully request: 

• The appointment of a person who is blind or visually impaired to the Senate, ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard in the decision-making process. 

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8. Creation of Disabilities Affairs Departments in Government Ministries in alignment with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), they advocate for: 

• The establishment of dedicated departments within each government ministry to oversee the implementation of disability-inclusive measures, fostering an environment where individuals with disabilities can fully enjoy their rights. 

9. Legislative Support for Persons with Disabilities, they urge candidates to support: 

• The enactment of specific, clear legislation that addresses the accessibility and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of public life, including education, transport, and healthcare. 

10. Mainstreaming Disability Inclusion in National Policies and Services To ensure that the needs of persons with disabilities are met, They call for: 

• The integration of disability inclusion across all national policies, procedures, goods, and services. This includes ensuring accessibility in public spaces, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. 

The Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association is committed to advocating for the rights of persons who are blind or visually impaired. They urge all candidates to consider these critical issues and provide a clear commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the visually impaired community.