By Nasratu Kargbo
Member of Parliament representing constituency 027 Francis Saa Bendu has called on the leadership of parliament to ensure that the environment and access to the well are disabled-friendly. The MP made this call during the debate of the presidential speech.
Bendu said that access to the Chamber of parliament is not disabled-friendly.
He explained that he usually feels bad when he sees his colleague go through so many struggles to access the chamber, he added that the children of MPs encounter challenges to usher in their fathers into the house.
“There was a rehabilitation done in this house, I thought there will be a provision, at least to give access to persons with disability to this chamber,” said Bendu. He explained that when it comes to inclusion, that sector should be considered.
Bendu said President Bio in his speech only mentioned disability in a single paragraph, which stated that the government is trying to improve the current Act.
He added that soon persons with disability will walk up to parliament to request a safe seat, citing countries such as Kenya and Ghana that are currently practicing such a model.
“All of us seated here can be easy customers to a disability,” said Bendu. He stated that if disability issues are to be taken seriously, parliament should take the lead.
He said that he had once raised concern and asked that National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) be summoned to parliament, in order for them to explain how the funds meant for disabled people were used. He added that the funds were provided by the government through NaCSA to financially support persons with disability.
The Speaker of Parliament Chernor Abass Bundu told the MP that people with disabilities are being considered in the ongoing work, and mentioned work on a walkway, ramp, and ongoing construction of a lift, which he said are designed to cater to persons with disability.
The president whilst delivering his speech during the state opening of the fifth session of the fifth parliament on the 10th May 2022 stated that the government continues to create an inclusive society.
He explained that the government has recently submitted to the Global Disability Summit Secretariat, the nation's Accountability Report on progress made in the six commitment areas about addressing stigma and discrimination, inclusive education, socio-economic empowerment, innovation and technology, disaggregated data, and women with disabilities.
Bio said the government was reviewing the Persons with Disability Act 2011 to bring it in line with international best practices. “Legislation will be brought forward soon,” said the President.
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