During a visit to Fondazzjoni Arka in Ghajnsielem Gozo this morning, Opposition leader Simon Busuttil said that during the parliamentary session tomorrow, the Nationalist Party will put forward a private members bill, which will make it illegal to discriminate against persons with disabilities. The clause will be included within the non-discrimination bill.

  Dr Busuttil said that 7% of the population, roughly 30,000 individuals in Malta suffer from some form of disability and their needs should be acknowledged.    MEP candidate and human rights lawyer Therese Commodini Cachia said that the basic principle of this proposal is to eliminate any form of discrimination. As it stands, there is already a law that does not allow discrimination on grounds of disabilities for housing, education and access to public spaces. The new proposal, Dr Commodini Cachia explained, will extend to all sectors in society, ensuring that such individuals will have their human rights protected.   Shadow Minister for employment and persons with disabilities Stephen Spiteri, said that it is the politicians' responsibility to acknowledge the work done by NGOs. He said, that the PN is being proactive to ensure more social inclusion. Dr. Spiteri will be presenting the bill during parliament tomorrow evening.