Minister says disability sector holds untapped workforce

Employers complaining about a lack of skilled workers should look to the disability sector, where a large workforce remains untapped, says Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran.

Responding to concerns about employers being hesitant to hire persons with disabilities, Ms Kiran said yesterday there was a readily available workforce waiting for opportunities.

“Employers complain about a lack of skills or a lack of people interested in working,” she said. “There is a huge workforce within the disability sector that they could benefit from.”

Ms Kiran said the ministry would share success stories to show how employers can benefit from hiring persons with disabilities.

She stressed that inclusion often requires only minor workplace adjustments to make employment accessible.

“We just make it a little bit more accessible and it would be amazing what they can contribute to the nation,” she said.

The minister said improvements in transport and employment settings would unlock significant national benefits.

“It is not only about disability inclusion, it’s about the nation benefiting from these skills,” she added.

The Inclusive Employment Guidebook, expected to be launched in March following national consultations, will provide practical guidance for employers on accessible recruitment, workplace modifications and building inclusive workplace cultures.

Under the Employment Relations Act, discrimination based on disability in recruitment, employment, promotion or termination is unlawful.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2018 also guarantees the right to work in safe, accessible and inclusive workplaces with reasonable accommodation.

Ms Kiran said the guidebook would be promoted as good practice for employers across both the public and private sectors.