The National Commission Persons with Disability (KNPD) launched its programme of activities for 2007, the European year for equal opportunities, and the 20th anniversary of the founding of the commission.

During a meeting in which Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, Opposition Leader Alfred Sant and members from the media were invited, KNPD Executive Director Joseph Camilleri called for disabled people to be shown in a more humane, positive and dignified manner.

He urged the media to support the commission’s year-long events and to help it combat stereotypes. He called for a fair portrayal of disabled people, one in which they are not portrayed as superhuman heroes, or subjected to public pity, but as people who overcome the difficulties in our society.

Mr Camilleri pointed out that not all disabled people are disabled in the same way: some would be physically impaired yet they can lead a “near-to-‘normal’ life”. However, there are people who have severe and multiple disabilities who may not be able to take conscious decisions.

In his address, Dr Gonzi referred to the commission’s logo, a diskette, saying that “in 1987 the diskette was an item of modern technology while today we speak in terms of pen drives and CDs. The commission has advanced as much as technology has over these 20 years and this has contributed to a greater awareness in the Maltese society.”

He also said the first act of parliament for the new millennium was the Equal Opportunities Act, which was unanimously approved.

Dr Alfred Sant praised the commission’s work and its programme of activities. He acknowledged the success it had achieved in the field, adding that improvement leads to even more needs.

He said disabled people who finish school and are not fit for employment need support, especially when the parents pass away. He also said that parents of disabled people should be given a chance to rest as well.