Lunch & Learn: Proposed Human Rights Updates
In conjunction with the Human Rights Commission, The Bermuda Chamber of Commerce will host a Lunch and Learn on Friday [Nov 20] to discuss the proposed updates to the Human Rights Act.
The Commission is preparing guidelines in support of existing and forthcoming legislation in the area of disability, employment and the duty to accommodate.
Kendaree Burgess, Bermuda Chamber of Commerce Executive Director states; “The proposed changes to the Act include adding mental health accommodation.
“It is important for employers and Human Resource professionals to understand the proposed changes and how it could potentially affect their business, and current and future staffing needs.”
Sara Clifford, Education Officer and Acting Executive Officer of the Human Rights Commission states, “The Commission has a statutory duty to ensure that our Act, and associated legislation, evolves both to reflect international standards in support of human rights, and to meet the needs of our local context and community.
“As such, we are pleased to hear in the Throne Speech that the Human Rights Act will be updated and amended at last to include mental health as a protected ground.”
“This Lunch n’ Learn is an opportunity to review existing duties under the Act as relates to accommodation for persons with disabilities and to discuss how best to create more inclusive work environments.
“No one should be denied employment if reasonable accommodations can be made to enable qualified candidates and qualified employees with disabilities to fulfill the duties of the job.”
The Lunch & Learn will take place at Appleby Bermuda, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton in the Yellowwood/Buttonwood Rooms. The session will begin at 12 noon; and cost $20 for members $40 for non-members.
Registration will open at 11:45am. Those wishing to attend should contact Stephanie Lee at slee@bcc.bm; or call the Chamber on 295 4201.
The full Human Rights Act 1981 follow below [PDF here]:
