Minister Turner Calls for Disability Inclusion to Shape Urban Renewal and Public Services

Minister of Social and Urban Transformation, Hon. Rawdon Turner, has called for accessibility to shape the renewal of St. John’s and the delivery of public services, with persons with disabilities directly involved in planning decisions.

Speaking at a Commonwealth symposium on implementing disability rights, Turner said decisions about streets, buildings and services determine whether people can participate fully in national life.

“We should never have to face a barrier ourselves before we take someone else’s experience seriously,” he said.

Turner identified the renewal of St. John’s as an opportunity to incorporate accessibility from the outset. He urged planners to consider the complete journey people make, from crossing streets and navigating pavements to entering buildings and reaching service counters.

“A ramp at the entrance can only do so much if the pavement leading to that building is blocked,” he said. “The people who make these journeys every day should help us design them.”

The Minister proposed establishing a functional disability council to give organisations representing persons with disabilities a regular voice in setting national priorities, advising on implementation and identifying gaps.

He also called for stronger links between education, training and employment services, along with reasonable workplace accommodations. A dedicated service to provide, maintain and repair assistive equipment, including wheelchairs and hearing aids, was another proposal he highlighted for consideration.

On disaster preparedness, Turner stressed the need for accessible warnings, suitable transportation and shelters equipped to support people who depend on powered medical devices.

“Persons with disabilities and their organisations must help us plan, test, and make arrangements well before the emergency,” he said.

Referencing the Commonwealth Disability Inclusion Action Plan, Turner urged participants to translate discussions into practical steps by identifying barriers, assigning responsibility for removing them and involving those affected in assessing the results.