The Regional Secretary for Social Solidarity said the Regional Government “is committed to building a society that excludes no one," stressing the actions developed by the Government "to mitigate the difficulties experienced by disabled people."

“The responses that have been provided in this area over the years are an example of this concern. Today, over a thousand Azoreans benefit from specialised services, mainly Occupational Activity Centres,” Piedade Lalanda stated, reminding that “there were only five centres in 1996, while today there are now 16 centres covering almost 500 youngsters and adults across the archipelago.”

Speaking at the Christmas Dinner organised by the Azores Delegation of the Portuguese Association of People with Disabilities, held in Ponta Delgada on Saturday, Piedade Lalanda also stressed “the financial support awarded to the purchase of adapted vans, which were not available in 1996; nowadays, they are a crucial resource that gives access to services, including attendance of activity centres.”

In her speech, she also recalled that the "investment in equipments specially designed for people with disabilities barely reached 500 thousand Euros 17 years ago,” emphasising that the investments made in this area exceeded six million Euros in 2012. This sum was allocated through cooperation agreements, support measures and investments in the plan.”

“Several facilities under construction will further improve the network of responses in this area this year and the next,” the Regional Secretary mentioned, defending the importance of solidarity, a value that should be alive “throughout the year” and not just in the Christmas season.

"We are all aware that there is still much to do. With regard to the inclusion of disabled people in society, especially in schools and workplaces, we have yet to break down barriers, not only physical ones but also mental and cultural. However, we cannot give up or lose hope,” said Piedade Lalanda.
The Regional Secretary also highlighted the work carried out by the Azores Delegation of the Portuguese Association of People with disabilities, considering it as “a voice that brings hope to many citizens enduring difficulties, facing limitations or fighting against insuperable obstacles.”

“You can count on the Government of the Azores to support and contribute to your success, because it will be beneficial for you and for the Azores as well; we will overcome challenges by promoting the respect for difference,” said Piedade Lalanda.