Equal opportunities for differently-abled, our aim - Minister

Irangika RANGE

Social Services Minister Felix Perera said “Equalization of opportunities” is our theme and its guiding philosophy for the achievement of full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of social and economic life.

He said the government has created an environment where persons with disabilities could stand up with their fellow citizens with pride.

'Public sympathy is often with the disabled people. But sympathy alone is not enough; it is necessary to secure equal opportunities and equal rights for people with disabilities, Minister Felix Perera addressing the launching ceremony of the World Report on Disability in Sri Lanka arranged by the Social Services Ministry in collaboration with the Health Ministry and the World Health Organization said.

'We as a responsible government is committed to creating a conducive environment for empowering people with disabilities through appropriate training and education. 'The Department of Social Services conducts various vocational training courses for disabled trainees at five vocational training centres maintained by the Department.

'An important principle underlying this theme is that issues concerning persons with disabilities should not be treated in isolation, but within the context of normal community services.

“We are in the process of formulating a national action plan on disability in line with the World Report and the National Policy on Disability for Sri Lanka,” the minister said