St. Kitts Acquires Accessible Bus to Enhance Mobility for Individuals with Disabilities

Introduction

Minister of State of Phillip receive the keys for the Accessible Bus from Durant Merchant of TDC. Deputy PM Hanley (right) and Ambassador Lin are also featured in the photo.

Enhanced Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities, seniors, and others facing mobility challenges who participate in programmes by the Department of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities will experience enhanced accessibility following the acquisition of a new mobility coaster.

Minister of State of Phillip receive the keys for the Accessible Bus from Durant Merchant of TDC. Deputy PM Hanley (right) and Ambassador Lin are also featured in the photo.

Features and Specifications

The key to the bus was presented to the Honourable Isalean Phillip, Minister of State responsible for Ageing and Disabilities, during a brief handing-over ceremony on Thursday, April 04, 2025, at TDC Automotive Division, C. A. Paul Southwell Industrial Site. It features several safety and accessibility functions, including an automatic passenger door, a pop-out electric step, four wheelchairs, a wheelchair lift, 10 seats, a public address system, and internal handrails.

Government Support and Partnership

Minister of State Phillip welcomed the addition of this new service, noting that it will support and expand the scope of work of the government as it seeks to deepen engagement with those with mobility challenges.

“It is not really our intention as a government department and ministry to compete with private sector services, but alternatively, we seek to improve government capacity to transport our staff with limited mobility, as well as our internal stakeholders, to be able to attend and participate in government-organised activities,” Honourable Phillip stated, adding that it “will ensure that no one is left behind.”

Funding and Donation

Funding for the coaster bus was provided by the Republic of China (Taiwan). It was donated as a direct response to a request made by Deputy Prime Minister, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, during a visit to Taiwan in May 2024. TDC Automotive Division sourced the vehicle to the specifications provided by the ministry.

International Partnership and Cooperation

Taiwan’s Resident Ambassador, His Excellency Michael Lin, said that his country was pleased to once again partner with Saint Kitts and Nevis.

“This event exemplifies the close bilateral relations between our two countries and also represents the enduring friendship between the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan,” he stated.

Deputy Prime Minister Hanley shared similar sentiments, noting that today’s partnership and other collaborations over the years are testament to what can be achieved through international cooperation.

“It reflects our shared values of equity, respect and compassion and serves as a shining example of what nations can achieve when they work hand-in-hand,” he stated.

Warranty and Maintenance

TDC Automotive Division is offering a three-year warranty on the vehicle, as well as two free servicing and discounted servicing up to one year.

Conclusion

The acquisition of the accessible bus is a significant step towards enhancing mobility and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in St. Kitts. The government’s partnership with Taiwan and TDC Automotive Division demonstrates the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in achieving common goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the purpose of the accessible bus?
A: The accessible bus is designed to provide transportation for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and others facing mobility challenges who participate in programmes by the Department of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities.
Q: Who funded the accessible bus?
A: The Republic of China (Taiwan) provided funding for the coaster bus as a donation to the government of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Q: What features does the accessible bus have?
A: The bus features several safety and accessibility functions, including an automatic passenger door, a pop-out electric step, four wheelchairs, a wheelchair lift, 10 seats, a public address system, and internal handrails.