Statement by the Provincial Health Minister, Pierre Uys, in support of International Day for Persons with Disabilities, 3 December 2005

There is a need to sensitise people to the many hurdles which still abound in every day life for people with disabilities. A major focus of the International Day of Disabled Persons is to promote awareness through practical action at improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, says min. Uys.

"It is important that people with disabilities are freely able to access social, economic, cultural and political life. This year's theme "Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Action and Development" addresses these very issues and needs our full support. As a Provincial Government we acknowledge all positive contributions to achieving a society for all through our home for all-vision resulting in equal opportunities and improvement in the quality of life of all people with disabilities living in our province" he said.

Our Western Cape Rehabilitation Centre at Lentegeur, which celebrates its first birthday on International Day for the Disabled on Saturday, is proof of our commitment to achieving this goal. Our rehabilitation Centre will be open to the public on Saturday where they will be entertained by our disabled people in a very special way. The programme will clearly indicate that our disabled people have many skills and have much to contribute to society at all levels and allow the public te get a better insight into the many obstacles faced by people with disabilities.

Issued by:
The Directorate Communications
Office of the Superintendent of Health, Western Cape
Department of Health

Herman van der Westhuizen
Media Liaison Officer to the Minister of Health
+27 483 2627