NATIONAL OFFICE OF DISASTER SERVICES

The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) is in possession of critical data to help guide plans and programmes for persons living with disabilities in Antigua and Barbuda.

Through a collaborative effort between the Community Development Division and the Association of Persons with Disabilities the data was collected and then passed on to NODS..

Acting Director of the Community Development Division Dale O’Brien says work had been ongoing to gather the data and the efforts were further intensified during the distribution of food packages to vulnerable individuals.

According to President of the Association of Persons with Disabilities Bernard Warner, information was collected for 326 persons and this is a good starting point to help NODS make critical decisions pertaining to providing adequate shelters among other things.

Association members say more should be done in the shelters to accommodate persons with disabilities to allow for privacy and ensure that they can access bathroom facilities easily.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Transformation Sharon Stevens believes the sharing of the information is a good start that will be built upon.

Director of NODS Philmore Mullin says the information will be shared with the District Disaster Coordinators so they can be aware of the individuals in their respective districts.

NODS will also explore avenues for funding to improve housing and collaborate further with the disability association and the Community Development Division.

NODS has also committed to look at steps that can be taken to improve access to shelters and the relevant recommendations will be made to the authorities.