Ministry, TTBWA launch first ever client registration card

3332671

To commemorate World Sight Day, the T&T Blind Welfare Association (TTBWA), with support from the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, launched its first ever Client Registration Card yesterday.

The launch took place at the ministry’s head office in Port-of -Spain.

The Client Registration Card (CRC) is a means of identifying people who are registered with the TTBWA and contains a quick response (QR) code, which may be used by their respective welfare offices to digitally access their file.

The CRC would also be used to obtain discounts at various business establishments.

Line Minister Donna Cox, who delivered the feature address at yesterday’s function, said Government must be commended for the plan to remove VAT and Custom duties on specified therapy equipment, hearing impaired, visually impaired, physical mobility disabilities, disability safety peripherals and communication devices, thus assisting persons with disabilities to purchase much needed peripherals and equipment at significantly reduced costs.

Approximately 52,000 persons are expected to benefit from this initiative.

Cox said the ministry has prioritised the enhancement of the lives of persons with disabilities as part of its mandate to ensure that there is full inclusion and participation by this segment in all aspects of society inclusive of access to decent work.

She said the Client Registration Card was launched at an opportune time as it precedes the commemoration of World Sight Day, which is celebrated today (October 14 2021) with the theme “Love Your Eyes.”

The minister said the theme places global attention on the need for persons to regularly check on the well-being of their eyes.

She said several eye diseases such as glaucoma can be successfully treated if detected in the early stages.

She also commended the TTBWA for its continued efforts in enhancing the lives of the blind and visually impaired.

President of TTBWA Felix Cazoe, in his address, said the association looks forward to building an inclusive and accessible society. He also noted that support from the private sector is essential to the blind and visually impaired community.

Both recipients, Asha Alexander-Lall and Vishad Paryag, said they were grateful to be the first beneficiaries of the Client Registration Card.

Also in attendance were Welfare Rehabilitation Services Manager Lakhan Seepersad, chairman of Eye Health and Welfare Committee Dr Desiree Murray and TTBWA’s Executive Officer Kenneth Suratt.