As a first step towards the establishment of this programme, DPA is setting up a database which will carry data on all disability issues and services in our republic. It plans to network with existing related databases and, eventually, to link up with similar databases around the world. The other laudable aspect of DPA's planning for the year 2000 and beyond, is the developing of its consumer and community-based independent living centre. This centre will help disabled people who are no longer patients but living in the community to be able to make well-informed and rational decisions with regard to the most appropriate assistive devices to enable them to function independently in the community. DPA also supports fine arts among its members.
Creative talents have no barriers.
This has been demonstrated by visiting artistes with disabilities and by individuals in our own republic. The private sector, the National Arts Council and DPA, together with the Very Special Arts Singapore, can jointly create the suitable climate to bring out the best in the citizens with disabilities. Finally, I wish to congratulate DPA for its progressive programmes to bring about the total integration of people with disabilities together with the non-disabled in our community.