Government of Jamaica
Nigy Boy, special guest at the LAC Justice Fair for Persons with Disabilities held at the Emancipation Park, is flocked by distinguished guests; Minister of Justice, Hon. Delroy Chuck (right), Custos of Rotulorum for St Andrew, Hon. Ian Forbes (second right) and Kimberley Wilson, Assistant Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Kingston, Jamaica. With the enactment of the Disability Act, 2014, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has partnered with Global Affairs Canada (GAC) through its implementing partner the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in providing legal services to the community of persons living with disabilities through the Legal Aid Council (LAC) Justice Fair for Persons with Disabilities recently held at the Emancipation Park.
Minister of Justice, Hon. Delroy Chuck in speaking at the Fair, indicated that through collaboration the Ministry of Justice has been developing strategies towards, expanding legal aid services, raising awareness among persons living with disabilities, enhancing legal expertise and creating an inclusive policy to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities.
“The needs of Persons with Disabilities are many and varied this is why we are joining hands with stakeholders in placing priority in this area. As part of our commitment, we are thrilled to participate in the Legal Aid Council Justice Fair, as it serves as a crucial platform to exchange ideas, share best practices and strengthen collaborations towards achieving justice and equality for all,” stated Minister Chuck.
With a focus on building Jamaica’s justice capacity and creating equity in the access to justice for persons with disabilities, Kimberley Wilson, Assistant Resident Representative speaking at the Fair, outlined the importance of hosting these initiatives to reduce inequalities.
“Vulnerable populations and those affected by discrimination are more likely to be unaware of their rights. Many persons with disabilities face disproportionate challenges in securing services because of physical and intellectual barriers, discriminatory practices, stereotypes and inadequate information. Recognizing this, these fairs represent critical components of a comprehensive approach aimed at dismantling inequities which limit access to justice services,” said Ms Wilson.
The seven-year So-Just Project that is being implemented until 2028, is a billion-dollar investment focused on integrating the four pillars of social justice. They are equity, access, participation, and rights.
"Canada is deeply committed to advancing social justice and supporting vulnerable communities. Through our partnership with the Ministry of Justice and the United Nations Development Programme, we are proud to contribute to initiatives that ensure persons with disabilities have equitable access to legal services and their rights are upheld. Our overarching goal is to create a more inclusive and just society for all,” stated Her Excellency Emina Tudakovic, High Commissioner of Canada, in outlining the support of the Canadian government to the development of Jamaica’s justice sector.
The first staging of the LAC justice fair was hosted in Montego Bay in December 2023, assisting over 300 persons living with disabilities from the Western parishes of Jamaica.
