Regional Government invites local authorities to fight against poverty and promote the professional integration of people with disabilities
The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity challenged local authorities to play an active role in the fight against poverty and social exclusion, with special emphasis on the social and professional integration of people with disabilities.
Andreia Cardoso spoke at the opening session of the 1st Seminar on Rehabilitation taking place in Ribeira Grande. On the occasion, she conveyed the Regional Government's intention to reinforce its action at a local level, calling for "the availability of all local authorities."
"This is a fundamental step in the fight against poverty and social exclusion, requiring the contribution of all parties involved, namely local authorities. It is a matter that calls for the contribution and help from everyone, not only the Government but also the communities affected by this situation," stated the government official.
The Regional Secretary mentioned some of the measures envisaged by the Azorean Government that are included in the AQI-Azores (Evaluate, Qualify, include) programme, especially the development of socially useful activities and the proposed legislative amendment regarding the employability of people with disabilities.
"I must emphasise that this measure acquires a local dimension as it requires the collaboration and involvement of all local players, namely local authorities, in order to promote the integration of these people and these activities into the local economic fabric," said the government official.
Pointing out the example of Ribeira Grande, Andreia Cardoso pointed out that this municipality "has established valuable partnerships with its institutions and some of them are already developing socially useful activities, which is a privilege." Hence, "they have an immense potential in promoting the employability of people with disabilities within their municipality."
"The Regional Government is fully available and interested in further strengthening the joint work with the Ribeira Grande Municipal Council in the fight against poverty and social exclusion," said the Regional Secretary. According to her, "the support of parents, families, communities, public entities, the business sector, health and education professionals should safeguard that all people with disabilities live healthy and fulfilling lives."