Minister of social security Pearnel Charles Jnr says as support for Jamaica’s special needs community is advanced it is essential that there is clear communication to ensure full inclusion.

His statement follows outcry from members of the public over the absence of a sign language interpreter from Saturday’s social issues debate.

The Jamaica Debates Commission issued an apology and stated that it was unable to secure an interpreter.

Veteran sign language interpreter Antoinette Aiken, who has over 19 years experience in the field, alleges that she is being blacklisted by the JDC.

In a statement today, Mr. Charles Jnr acknowledged that Ms. Aiken is a trusted figure in the deaf community and stated that her absence is regrettable and disappointing.

He noted that persons with disabilities have a right to participate fully in national discourse.