By Sue-Ann Wayow

PUBLIC and private institutions are being advised to ensure that their facilities are equipped to cater to the needs of persons who are differently abled.

The advisory comes from the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services.

The ministry in a media release on Monday stated that it will be implementing  national accessibility requirements at all ministry buildings throughout the country.

“This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all facilities are accessible and usable by persons with disabilities,” the release stated.

The ministry stated that at each of the ministry’s locations, clear signage indicating designated parking for persons with disabilities, along with two reserved parking spaces for visitors, will be visible.

The release stated, “The Ministry strongly encourages other public and private institutions to adopt similar measures to promote inclusivity and equal access for all citizens.”

The initiative aligns with the Trinidad and Tobago Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, declared in June 2014 and approved by the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards.

This standard outlined accessibility guidelines for persons with disabilities and supports the National Building Code of Trinidad and Tobago by detailing design and construction requirements that foster inclusivity, the release stated.