Disability rights' watchdog files access complaint in court against MFA

The National Commission for People with a Disability (KNPD) have filed for court action against the Malta Football Association (MFA) for failing to provide adequate access to the Ta' Qali national stadium's enclosure side.

The KNPD said that by failing to provide access for all facilities the MFA was in breach of the Equal Opportunities (Persons with Disability) Act 2000.

The commission said it had received numerous complaints about the lack of accessible features required by law for persons with disability in the stadium's Enclosure Side.

"The stadium is a public building and therefore obliged to provide these features. KNPD also asserted that MFA failed to take remedial action to improve the access to the national stadium's most commonly used part despite the extensive correspondence and efforts at mediation, including an on-site visit, and a judicial protest filed before the said court. These actions were taken in effort to resolve the situation and ensure compliance," the KNPD said.

While the stadium's Millennium Stand is accessible, it is hardly ever opened for local top-flight games. Given the attendance for local games, the older enclosure side is used to host both sets of supporters as well as the VIP stand.

"The Enclosure Side's entrance, stands and facilities are not accessible for persons with restricted mobility. Moreover, the Enclosure Side has roofing which protects spectators from the elements, while the Millennium Side does not."

Should MFA fail to comply, KNPD requested the courts to impose a daily fine upon MFA until the situation is satisfactorily resolved.