Concerns voiced during discussion in 'Parliament'

People with a disability and their relatives yesterday had the chance to voice their concerns and aspirations during a special "parliamentary session" organised as part of the World Disability Day celebrations.

An appeal for better post-secondary education, the need for more teachers for students with hearing impairment, the importance of access to free medicines by people with certain conditions and for more respect toward people with a disability were discussed at the Palace in Valletta in the afternoon.

Although the past years have seen big steps forward when it comes to disability, more needs to be done, those present, including politicians, said.

Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina said that while the aspirations of 20 years ago have become a reality, new challenges have been created.

Although people with a disability had a lot to give, the employment sector did not realise how important their contributions were, she added.

Moving on to adult centres, she said these helped create new abilities rather than just serving as respite for the relatives. While reform in adult centres was underway, this could be hindered by fear and resistance.

She mentioned the sterling work done by NGOs, adding that her ministry gave them some Lm330,000 a year to carry out projects. The new commissioner for NGOs is expected to be announced in the coming days.

Labour MP Marie Louise Coleiro Preca said there was a need for a national policy governing issues related to disability. She also mentioned the need for a multidisciplinary team to help parents who have just had a child with a disability, adding that these children need to be assessed immediately.

Employment, she continued, was imperative because it gave people dignity and she stressed the importance of overcoming barriers which were keeping people with a disability away from employment.

Both Ms Coleiro Preca and Environment Minister George Pullicino mentioned how important it is that architects understand the importance of accessibility when they designed buildings.

Education Minister Louis Galea said a coordinator for inclusive education will be employed in each of the country's 10 colleges. A special curriculum for students with a disability will also be designed.

He suggested that now that pensioners could continue working while receiving their full pension, a way should be devised for people with a disability to also retain their pension if they work.