![MEC Fritz with Mr SA 2017 reps from the five disability NGOs MEC Fritz with Mr SA 2017 reps from the five disability NGOs](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/mec_fritz_with_mr_sa_2017_reps_from_the_five_disability_ngos.jpg)
On International Day of Persons with Disability, Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Albert Fritz, joined a disability awareness demonstration at Cape Town Station. The event also marked the end of National Disability Awareness Month.
The event was hosted by the Western Cape Network on Disability, in conjunction with the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and Metrorail.
Five NGO organizations working with disability also attended, including 30 disabled staff members.
In his address, MEC Fritz called on the private sector and government to lead the way in hiring people with disabilities, improving their access to the economy.
“People with disabilities are just as capable, if not better employees in many cases. The Department remains committed to expanding services and economic opportunities for disabled people, including people with intellectual disabilities”, said Fritz.
A total of R148-million has been allocated in 2016/17 towards our ever expanding services. This has allowed the department to assist 85 475 persons, up from 59 870 in the prior year. Our focus is not only on improving access, but also extending socio-economic opportunities to especially disabled youth, and increasing services for people with intellectual disabilities.
People with disabilities should have the same opportunities as everybody else, and DSD is committed to working with all our partners to expand services and opportunity. The public can seek more information by visiting any DSD local office, or by contacting the DSD hotline on 0800 220 250.
Sihle Ngobese
Spokesperson for Albert Fritz, Minister of Social Development
Western Cape Government
7th floor, 14 Queen Victoria Street, Cape Town, 8000
Tel : (021) 483 9217
Cell : 076 083 6543
Email : Sihle.Ngobese@westerncape.gov.za