Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities calls for low-income housing, job opportunities

The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) is calling on the Irfaan Ali-led Government to ensure that all developmental plans are inclusionary and create equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

This call came on the backdrop of the GCOPD congratulating President Ali on his election to Office following the March 2 polls. The Organisation in commending the new President on his vision and development agenda for the country, also made specific calls for initiatives to better their lives.
“We have taken initiative in outlining some areas that would greatly help persons with disabilities in Guyana. We look forward to: the establishment of a monthly Disability Grant, in place of the Public Assistance; opportunities for employment of qualified and skilled PWDs in the public sector; improvements in the delivery of education to children with disabilities; provision of low-income housing for PWDs; provision of assistive and mobility aids,” the body stated.
Additionally, the GCOPD called for yearly subventions to be allocated to Disabled People Organisations (DPOs); the modification and enforcement of building codes to promote accessibility to public buildings, and allocation of small contracts to companies owned and operated by PWDs and to promote small business development in the disability community.
As a national civil society umbrella organisation, GCOPD anticipates a productive partnership with the new Government as they intend to work together to create a more inclusive and accessible Guyana. They are hopeful that the Ali Government will promote and fulfil the inherent rights of Persons With Disabilities in Guyana.
The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities is the umbrella body that represents the majority of Disabled People Organisations across Guyana, working in the areas of advocacy and capacity building.