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The IFP pays tribute to all the brave and courageous individuals living with
disabilities today, on International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Proclaimed by the United Nations 20 years ago, this day is commemorated
across the world, highlighting the plight and the difficulties faced by
those living with disabilities.

South Africa is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of People
with Disabilities. Yet recent public hearings by the Portfolio Committee on
Women, Children and People with Disabilities made it clear that we still
have a long and difficult road to travel in order to meet the obligations of
the Convention.

The IFP's Spokesperson on the Committee, Ms Liezl van der Merwe MP, said,
"People with disabilities face all the challenges of unemployment and
poverty, but with less chance of overcoming. It is difficult to judge
whether we have made any strides in ensuring a better life for people with
disabilities. In fact, I was shocked to learn that a large chunk of the
budget of the Public Works Department, set aside to create disabled-friendly
facilities at governments institutions, has not been spent over many years
because the Department lacks the skills to do so. The IFP has therefore
challenged Government to fulfil its accepted obligations."

Van der Merwe said many other critical challenges remain. "When members of
the Portfolio Committee recently engaged the Department of Arts and Culture,
it wasn't clear what progress has been made in ensuring that sign language
becomes South Africa's 12th official language. Sign language is used by a
substantial number of South Africans to communicate. In many instances,
without access to sign language interpreters, South Africans with hearing
disabilities will not be able to access their basic human rights, such as
justice or healthcare. The status of the mooted Disability Legislation is
unclear," said van der Merwe.

The IFP believes that many people with disabilities can inspire able-bodied
South Africans through their message of perseverance and courage. These
South Africans should be celebrated as well as assisted. "They have an
overcoming spirit," said van der Merwe, "The IFP I would like to encourage
people with disabilities to live positively. They cannot allow their
disability to prevent them from living their lives to the fullest and
achieving their goals and dreams".

On this day, the IFP urges all South Africans not to discriminate against
people with disabilities. They are not inferior in any way, but are a great
assest to our nation.