The Tribune

THE Disabled Persons Organization (DPO) has called for the swift passage of the Senior Citizens Bill and proposed amendments to disability legislation, saying both measures present an opportunity to strengthen protections for vulnerable Bahamians.

In a statement marking Blindness Awareness Month and Older Persons Month, both observed in October, the organisation urged parliamentarians to support the Senior Citizens Bill, which it said would strengthen legal protections against abuse, neglect and exploitation.

The DPO also welcomed ongoing consultations on amendments to the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities) Act, which it said were expected to come before the House of Assembly shortly.

The organisation said the proposed amendments could strengthen enforcement mechanisms, improve accessibility standards and bring Bahamian legislation into closer alignment with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

It encouraged people with disabilities, their families and advocates to participate in the consultation process to ensure their concerns are reflected in the legislation.

DPO president Antoine Munroe said the two legislative initiatives represented an important opportunity to advance inclusion and protect the rights of older people and those living with disabilities.

“October reminds us that disability and ageing touch every Bahamian family,” Mr Munroe said.

“We applaud the Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Disability Affairs and Senior Citizens Divisions for their dedication. “With the Senior Citizens Bill before Parliament and the amendments to the Persons with Disabilities Equal Opportunities Act soon to follow, The Bahamas has a real opportunity to build a more inclusive nation. We call on Government, the private sector and every citizen to support these efforts so that no one is left behind.”

The organisation also highlighted the connection between ageing and disability, noting that many senior citizens experience disabilities, including vision loss, and require access to appropriate care and support.

It said older Bahamians should be able to age with dignity, security and protection from abuse and neglect.

As part of Blindness Awareness Month, the DPO commended the Bahamas Alliance for the Blind and Visually Impaired for its advocacy and programmes promoting independent living and mobility.

Ahead of White Cane Safety Day on October 15, the organisation urged motorists, businesses and the wider public to recognise the white cane as a symbol of independence and support efforts to improve accessibility.

It called for more accessible streets, buildings, documents and digital services to ensure blind and visually impaired Bahamians can participate fully in society.

The DPO reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government, civil society organisations and communities to advance the rights and well-being of older persons and people with disabilities throughout The Bahamas.