The call of Ms. Kerryann Ifill, Chair of the Advisory Panel for CARICOM Disabilities (APfCD), in a message to observe International Day of Persons with Disabilities today, is for “all governments and citizens of the Region to band to gather to protect, empower and uplift all persons with disabilities who are blessed to live among us!.
Ms. Ifill lauded the appointment of CARICOM Spécial Rapporteur on Disability, Senator Dr Floyd Morris, and stated the Panel was stimulated to ensure “The Declaration of Pétion Ville – adopted December 2013 – will finally begin to make an indelible mark across our region”.
Full text of Message
As we commemorate this International Day of persons with disabilities 2018, it is with a sense of profound excitement that I hale the appointment of Senator Floyd Morris as CARICOM Special Rapporteur on Disability. As chair of the Advisory Pannel on Disabilities for Caricom, I am deeply gratified to be associated with the next phase of development.
As we focus on this year’s theme “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality” ”, the Pannel – have been stimulated. To ensure The Declaration of Petion Ville – adopted December 2013 – will finally begin to make an indelible mark across our region. Our Pannel which comprises persons passionate about and committed to the realisation of these objectives stands ready to support the work the rapporteur in building a caribbean that is truly inclusive of all its citizens. Our people all deserve the opportunity to make their contribution, to fulfil their potential and to be supported by those around them.
Helen Keller once said “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” And baring this mind I therefore call on all Governments and citizens of this region to band together to protect, empower and uplift all persons with disabilities who are blessed to live among us! Let this new beginning mark another step towards the fulfilment of the dream;; the dream to have a world where everyone is valued without discrimination.
Prepared by: Kerryann F. Ifill SCM, MBA, BSC (Hons)
Chairman
Caricom Advisory Pannel on Disabilities
