Minister of Human Resources Sivakumar attempts to allay the issue after making a controversial statement with regard to discrimination faced by Persons with disabilities in the workplace.
The Minister recently faced the crosshairs from groups representing persons with disabilities when he said that there is no need for specific legislation that protects Persons With Disabilities in the workplace. His comments drew flak from Rangkaian Solidariti Demokratik Oesakit Mental that said the comment fails to appreciate the existing gaps in protections in the Employment Act, where discrimination is not defined, and that existing protections are highly limited as they do not extend to pre-employment, such as during the hiring process. Without pre-employment protections, PWD are often subjected to discrimination during the hiring process, and any discrimination experienced would not be reported or accounted for.
Sivakumar in a recent statement said the Ministry has taken note of the issue raised in connection with the discrimination that occurs and said there are efforts being implemented to guarantee employment opportunities for the disabled. Among them he said was the cooperation with the Ministry of Women’s Development, Family, and Community by providing a platform to discuss and propose appropriate solution measures for issues involving the disabled under the National Council for the Disabled.
Also, any party or employees who feel faced with discrimination issues in employment can make complaints at nearby labor offices.
However, the Human Resources Minister did not address the request by the groups for legislation to address the discrimination faced by PWDs in the job market and full the 1% in civil service policy.
