Law soon for welfare of the disabled

A draft law that seeks to meet the needs of the disabled and focuses on their integration and full participation in society is now in the final stages, Dr Yahya bin Bader al Maawali, Undersecretary of Social Development, has said. According to him, the new law looks at improving their services and enhancing the partnership between public, private and civil sectors. A workshop was held on Tuesday, which was attended by concerned stakeholders and a group of disabled people, discussed the proposed articles in the draft law. “Since Oman has ratified the International Convention on Persons with Disabilities, it is committed to translating the agreement into a law,” said Al Mawaali. He said having a national law will greatly help meet the requirements that can be provided to the disabled and their families. Hilal bin Mohammed al Abri, Director-General, General Directorate for Persons with Disabilities, said a set of articles had been amended, including terms of reference and some items in the field of rehabilitation. “The views of various agencies related to persons with disabilities along with the legislative and human rights bodies of the State have been sought to help set better regulations,” Al Abri said. He said the current draft has been reviewed by the legal authorities and presented to more than one legislative and human rights entities. “All opinions and recommendations from this workshop will be taken into consideration and a further review conducted along with the legal authorities before promulgation of the law.” Zainab al Nassri - Muscat, Jan 23 -