The work of those who contribute to improving the lives of people with disabilities will be recognised through a new set of awards that will be launched in the coming days.

The Premju SoċjetàĠusta (Fair Society Award) will be awarded to three people for their commitment and dedication to the sector. The winners may not necessarily all be people with disabilities.

Two of the winners will be selected by an independent board following the submission of nominations. The third award will be given to a person handpicked by the Parliamentary Secretary for Rights of Persons with Disability, Justyne Caruana.

Her secretariat already organises the Premju Anzjan tas-Sena (Elderly Person of the Year Award) and she now felt the need to put the spotlight on disability issues.

“This new initiative is being taken to show recognition and appreciation of any work done for the disability sector. It is a celebration of a great deal of work, commitment and dedication being taken by the people involved in this sector,” Dr Caruana said.

She added that this initiative was intended to become an annual event that would be part of the celebrations taking place during Disability Week in December.

“The purpose of giving these awards is to celebrate achievements of individuals and organisations that are supporting a disability rights-based culture. The government is duty-bound to express its appreciation to all those working towards the creation of a more inclusive Maltese society whereby people with disability, their families and carers have access to the full range of supports to assist independent living and active engagement within their communities,” she said.

For more information people can send an e-mail on socjetagusta-award.mfss@gov.mt.