Better communication needed in TT for the disabled
BETTER communication is what members of the hearing impaired community want in this country, as a lack of proper signs, interpreters, proper teaching of sign language and cell phone use, are hindering the improvement of their lives. During the launch of Disability Awareness Week yesterday by the Ministry of Social Development at the Hilton Trinidad, Ian Danoolal of the Agape Deaf Centre related his plight in sign language to members of the audience about visits to doctors’ offices and supermarkets where there are no interpreters for the hearing impaired. Danoolal said the use of Trinidadian sign language also needed to be addressed, since many people who learn the American version become confused with the Trinidadian version which has more body movement. Social Development Minister Anthony Roberts assured the audience that the ministry is collaborating with the deaf community and respective stakeholders to standardise TT sign language. Roberts said Government has increased the subventions of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community-based Organisations (CBOs) working with and advocating for persons with disabilities. "Over the last fiscal year, the Ministry of Social Development awarded over $20 million in subventions and one-off grants to NGOs providing services to persons with disabilities," said Roberts. During the course of this week, 22 organisations which treat persons with hearing, visual, mental, emotional, physical and learning disabilities will host exhibitions, open days, seminars and panel discussions to promote an understanding of disability issues.
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"Better communication needed in TT for the disabled"