Sunday Morning, and another very insightful discussion at a brunch event hosted by Dr. Lydia Abela. Following the success of last week’s event Click here this time the discussion focused on people with disability, thier priorities, and how it is a crucial top priorty for Government to ensure thier well-being is secured across the entire spectrum of this very special community.

Dr. Lydia Abela offered a glimpse on a personal moment from this morning. As she discussed today’s event with her husband Prime Minister Ronbert Abela, both shared their deep personal prioritisation of this sector, with the Prime Minister warmly outlining what a big job Lydia had today to recall all the positive measures and initiatives that are being implemented for this sector. Dr. Lydia Abela went on to explain her personal experience as the President of Malta’s Special Olympics.

Claudia Faniello, who chaired the event, talked about the advanced educational opportunities being offered, a point expanded upon by Oliver Sciculna, activist and CEO, who went over an endless list of advancements registered since 2013, including the recognition of Maltese Sign Language as an official language in Malta. Olivia Galea Seychell, a psychologist and mother of Beppe, recalled the experience of her child who despite numerous challenges is now a book author, that also, thanks to the support being given, not only is realising his ambition and dreams, but is also helping others through his passion and work. One of the most touching moments during the discussion was when an ALS account was given, with Prime Minister Abela visiting the individual not as Prime Minister but as Robert, a friend that cared and offered support.

Dr. Abela, as she spoke about Dar Saura and a similar project in Gozo, drew attention to the vital work being undertaken by President Emeritus Maire Louis Coleiro Preca, also in the audience. She then moved on to explain how when visiting a large family in Gozo, she was introduced to all the family members, a pensioner that received multiple increases, the angel of the family – a person with disability – who’s wellbeing is being ensured through the multitude of measures offered by Government, a young kid who was very proud to show her the tablet he was provided for free at school, and a young parent who spoke to her about the importance of free child care.

Dr Abela outlined that Labour is there to support families and that when it comes to disabilities a host of new proposals are also being put forward to further enhance and prioritise the needs of these very special people.

The cost of therapy required by children under 18 with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions, including occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and physiotherapy, will be fully funded by Government. Parents of children under 18 with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions, who take their children to therapy or to hospital appointments, will benefit from 5 days of paid carers’ leave, and this leave may be taken in hours. Parents of children with disabilities will continue to pay tax at the parents’ rate until their children reach 23 years of age, and in the case of children with severe disabilities, for as long as they continue caring for them. The Carer’s Grant for parents of children with severe disabilities will be doubled so that it becomes equivalent to the minimum wage. And the first-time buyers’ grant will also be doubled from €10,000 to €20,000 for persons with severe disabilities who buy their first property.

For the Labour Party the dreams and aspirations of persons with disability are important. These dreams are the Government’s project as we continue to build on the very good work conducted so far.