In a break from the electoral campaign trail, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi gave an emotional speech when he opened the new offices at Aġenzija Sapport in Santa Venera yesterday.

A one-size-fits-all policy is not good for society

“We are writing a new chapter in the history of Aġenzija Sapport,” he said, as he nostalgically recalled when he was actively involved in its setting up, as social policy minister.

Dr Gonzi said the agency, which offers support to people with disabilities, worked on basis of solidarity and respect for dignity and human rights.

“The changes in awareness over the years made me realise how politics could make a real difference in the people’s lives.”

He stressed that people did not have to adapt to society but society had to learn to adapt to different people.

“If a rainbow missed one of its colours it would be incomplete,” said Dr Gonzi, stressing the need for society to keep changing and responding. “It’s the way it becomes stronger. A one-size-fits-all policy is not at all good for society.”

He referred to the Church, which, he said, had started the process of change in culture. The National Commission for Persons with Disability had built on that, but moved away from the idea of charity.

“There is no space for pity in the right to dignity – it is a human right,” said Dr Gonzi.

On his way to the offices to unveil the commemorating monument by artist Paul Haber, Dr Gonzi stopped to thank commission president Joe Camilleri for his unwavering active role and quipped: “What are you doing sitting at the back? The pillars should sit on the front.”