People with HIV/AIDS are still discriminated against

News

Corey Connelly

23 minutes ago

Labor Minister Stephen Mc Clashie says legislation on HIV/AIDS in the workplace is vital as people living under conditions in TT continue to face discrimination.

He delivered the keynote address at a national stakeholder consultation on legislation to regulate HIV/AIDS in the workplace at the Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort, Lowlands, Tobago, on May 15.

McClashie told stakeholders that many people living with HIV still do not have access to employment and employment benefits, such as training and promotion opportunities based on their status.

“It is therefore intended that legislation in support of the National Workplace Policy on HIV and AIDS would address these forms of discrimination and guarantee workers’ right to work and productivity in the workplace,” he said.

“As key stakeholders, you all have a say in the best legislative solution to reduce employment-related stigma and discrimination against people living with or affected by HIV and AIDS and to provide a safe and productive working environment for all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago , including citizens living with HIV and AIDS.”

Mc Clashie said any legislation would likely include sanctions for breaches of the national HIV and AIDS policy.

He said the ministry’s HIV Workplace Advocacy Unit contributed to the public consultations held by the National AIDS Coordinating Committee on the Green Paper in 2023.

Mc Clashie said the Ministry of Labor, the Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Legal Affairs have the responsibility to amend existing legislation and/or develop new legislation to protect workers living with HIV/AIDS.

“In addition, the Department should consider potential legislation that would include sanctions for violations of the policy.”