The Honourable Dr. Vindhya Persaud, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, on Tuesday, delivered a statement virtually during the general debate of the 15th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The Conference was convened from 14–16 June, 2022, under the theme “Building disability inclusive and participatory societies in the COVID context and beyond.”

Minister Persaud underscored the Government of Guyana’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities as well as ensuring their inclusive, equitable and sustainable development in society. The Hon. Minister added that the Government of Guyana continues to make significant investments towards their education, financial independence and the protection of their fundamental rights.

The Honourable Minister further noted that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the lives of persons with disabilities and informed that the Government of Guyana is ensuring that they are included in response and recovery efforts including with respect to access to health, education and social protection services.

It was also highlighted that persons living with disabilities in Guyana will continue to benefit from free assistive aids, including wheelchairs, walkers, white canes, hearing aids and financial support towards prosthesis. Children living with disabilities will also easily benefit from public assistance and free transportation to special needs schools, thereby reducing some of the challenges that caregivers face.