GOOD Statement by Joy Davids ,
GOOD Disabilities Representative
04 December 2024
The GOOD Party calls for an extension to the public comments on the Disability Bill.
Today is the deadline for written comments and representations on Project 148 by the South African Law Reform Commission (SALRC) regarding the Domestication of the United Nations on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) is an international treaty that promotes and protects the human rights of people with disabilities
It obliges governments to adopt laws and policies that eliminate discrimination, ensure accessibility, and foster inclusion across all aspects of society.
This bill is key to transforming the lives of many South Africans however there has been little to no awareness raised over the 2-month public comment period.
As GOOD we commend the steps being taken to ease the burdens of those living with disabilities and their support structures. But why the rush?
Instead of an open, fair and thought-out process, it feels more like an exercise to meet international obligations.
The current public participation is missing a vital awareness campaign. The public is widely unaware of the Bill, what it means and the implications.
As GOOD we believe there should have been direct participation from all sectors, specifically education, health, social development, labour, finance, transport and public works.
If this Bill is to improve the lives of all persons with disabilities and those affected by it directly or indirectly, thorough and thoughtful discussions must be made.
This Bill should not be something that is put together by abled persons with no real understanding of the daily issues faced by millions of South Africans.
Media Enquiries:media@forgood.org.za