An accessible EU and the rights of persons with disabilities
Official plenary intervention concerning an accessible eu and the rights of persons with disabilities, with a link to the European Parliament record.
The intervention at a glance
- Access to wheelchairs and specialised medical equipment
- Stronger benefits and accessible public information
- EU-wide upgrade of the disability card
Madam President, beyond declarations on equal access and support for persons with disabilities, social exclusion and marginalisation unfortunately continue to exist. In a truly modern Europe, every person must have equal opportunities to live, work and participate actively in social life.
Persons with disabilities need respect, understanding and meaningful support. I propose specific measures at European level: no taxation on the purchase of wheelchairs or specialised medical equipment for persons with disabilities; an increase in disability benefits; and an obligation for every Member State to maintain a public channel serving the needs of persons with disabilities, with subtitles and sign-language interpretation.
Penalties for illegal parking in spaces reserved for persons with disabilities should be allocated to the relevant organisations. Finally, the disability card should be upgraded to guarantee EU-wide access to services. Equality is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all.