A research study webinar organized by the Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, was launched at the old University in Valletta with the aim of obtaining a clearer picture of people with disabilities and work. This research consisted of interviews with 336 people with disabilities and 52 employers. Guidelines have also been drawn up to assist employers in identifying aids they may need to employ people with disabilities.
This webinar was addressed by Ministers Michael Falzon and Julia Farrugia Portelli.
Minister Michael Falzon spoke about the importance of continuing studies to identify areas for more people with disabilities to be included in the world of work. Minister Falzon said that this government has increased the financial allocation for this area, so much so that this year € 35 million a year is allocated, and this is another confirmation of how much this government wants to continue. perform social justice.
Minister Michael Falzon said that people with disabilities in the world of work have doubled compared to 2012 but this is still not enough. Therefore the government will continue to work to prepare good conditions for employers along with specialized training.
Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli expressed satisfaction with the positive response to the research by the employers who used the services of the Lino Spiteri Foundation and the support they received. There has also been a positive response to the support and financial aid provided to employers with regard to employment for people with disabilities. She said however that this research shows that in general employers agree that there is not enough knowledge and technical assistance to be given to employers about work for people with disabilities.
“Therefore, as a government, we need to launch awareness campaigns in the coming months, together with the trade unions, so that in the coming months employers will become more aware of workplace disabilities. They help every worker to know how to deal with situations they have never encountered. I am convinced that the guidelines that were launched today will be serving as a tool to help in the process of creating more job opportunities for people with disabilities, “concluded Minister Farrugia Portelli.
Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Samantha Pace Gasan spoke about the importance of employment for people with disabilities. “Today’s research is a basis for reaching the next step, the step of seeing better initiatives and services even in the workplace.”
