The National Disabled People’s Network (NDPN) yesterday at its second General Assembly selected a new executive as the organisation became a registered non-governmental organisation this year.
At the Critchlow Labour College, the new president-elect Lloyd Griffith presented a proposal to the Minister of Human Service and Social Security Priya Manickchand. The proposal is seeking financial assistance in providing transportation for the various Disable People’s Networks and a building to house the NDPN’s headquarters.
The NDPN is an advocacy and awareness organisation that involves people with various disabilities in areas of social, sport, health, education and livelihood.
Meanwhile Manickchand, in her address to those in attendance at the one day session, told the group that they can advocate better for what they want collectively, since they know best what are affecting them. However, she cautioned the group not to be a “fly by night organisation” or one that is only operational during observations for the various disabilities. “There needs to be a comprehensive collective effort,” she told them.
There are six regional disabled persons networks established in regions Two (Queenstown, Essequibo), Seven (Bartica), Four (Diamond and Golden Grove), Five (Seafield) and Six (New Amsterdam). The DPN was born out of the Community Based Rehabilitation Programme in 2004.
Some of the challenges the organisation faces include adequate accommodation, especially in Bartica, Diamond and New Amsterdam. However, the Region 5 network received a government pledge to financially support adequate extension of the building in which the unit meets.
Most of the regional DPNs are involved in income generating activities such as cake decorating sales; self made lunches; bingos; sports events; and sales of craft items they make.
