The Malta Down Syndrome Associated celebrated World Down Syndrome Day - and its own 10-year anniversary - at an activity in Gozo today.

The activity saw the participation of Parliamentary Secretary for the Rights of Persons with Disability Justyne Caruana, who discussed ideas with persons with disability and their parents and also replied to their queries.

Dr Caruana emphasised the government's commitment to people with disability, stating that work was ongoing so that a home for persons with disability within the community would open this year, providing residential facilities for people with various disabilities.

She also mentioned ongoing work on a lifelong learning hub for persons with disability in Għajnsielem, noting that this project would create a total of 80 jobs in Gozo, including back office work.

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of a third copy of chromosome 21, which occurs roughly once every 700 births.

World Down Syndrome Day is observed every 21 March to raise awareness and to advocate for the rights, inclusion and wellbeing of people with Down syndrome.