On ME awareness day AD reiterates its support of persons with ME

Commenting on the international day on awareness of ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis), Alternattiva Demokratika – The Green Party reiterated its support of the call of ME activists in Malta for recognition of their condition as a disability.

Claire Azzopardi Lane, AD spokesperson for Disability Issues, said that “AD supports the appeal so that persons with ME can be recognised by Malta’s social policy structures. Support from health and social services should verify the situation of the individual so as to provide the sufficient level of support required to each individual”.

“AD also calls on the government, which last year banned blood donations from persons with ME, to allocate funds for appropriate education and training of doctors and other health care professionals that would enable them to diagnose persons with ME at an early stage and advise them on appropriate forms of health management. Persons with ME should also get the same support and access in cross-border care as is given to persons with other conditions for which treatment is not available locally.”

Michael Briguglio, AD Chairperson, said that “many persons with ME have a lack of opportunities to be mobile and independent. Unfortunately they are not being given equal recognition by the Government as that given to other persons with disability and chronic conditions. An inclusive social policy should not exclude persons who require support. Support should be seen as a basic right and not charity”.