Abela announces disability autonomy and vulnerable adults laws now in force
“The greatest thing we can give to people with disabilities is autonomy," Prime Minister says
Two laws granting greater autonomy to people with disabilities and strengthening safeguards for vulnerable adults have come into force, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced on Friday.
The Personal Autonomy Act introduces supported decision-making, allowing people who need assistance to receive it while retaining control over decisions affecting their lives.
The law is based on the principle that nobody should make decisions on another person’s behalf unless it is entirely impossible for that person to decide, Abela said.
“The greatest thing we can give to people with disabilities is autonomy,” he said. “Wherever possible, this law will ensure that they have the right to autonomy in their lives.”
The Protection of Vulnerable Adults Act has also come into effect and is intended to make it easier to intervene and provide assistance when vulnerable adults require society’s protection.
Those covered include elderly people and adults with disabilities who may be at risk of abuse, harm or neglect. Government documents say the law provides a framework for assistance, investigations and emergency action where necessary.
Abela announced the laws during the opening of the 16th BOV Volleyball Marathon in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza.
The 53-hour event brings together athletes and volunteers to raise funds for the home, which provides services to people with disabilities.
The prime minister said the implementation of the laws fulfilled a government pledge for the first 100 days of the new administration.
He praised the volunteers involved in the marathon and said the event combined support for a worthy cause with the promotion of sport and healthy living.
Abela attended the opening alongside ministers Michael Falzon, Byron Camilleri, Miriam Dalli and Malcolm Paul Agius Galea.
He thanked the athletes, volunteers, workers and management of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, led by Fr Martin Micallef, for their work with people with disabilities and their families.
The prime minister also presented the home with a €20,000 donation from the Social Causes Fund.