Euro-MP launches new social inclusion initiative

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 21st May 2004

West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne was today key speaker at the launch of AMANI (Asian Multicultural Awareness Network Initiative) in Nuneaton.

It was set up to create a fair community, promoting social inclusion and tackling deprivation and discrimination. They are involved in a number of projects helping people with disabilities and researching the dangers of Drug Misuse.

Speaking at the launch the Liberal Democrat European Candidate said:

"One of the things I went in to politics for was to tackle discrimination and to help provide a fairer society for all especially for disabled people. The aims of AMANI are right at the heart of what I passionately believe in and have strived for all my political life. I was therefore delighted to be asked to launch this initiative and wish it every success in the future.

"One of the projects they are involved in is for respite care for families with disabled children. I know just how much carers need to get a break and it is also good for the child to also have a break from the normal daily events.

"They are also involved with research in to Drug Misuse. If we successfully prevent people from starting on drugs or help addicts kick the habit we will also stop a lot of the crime that goes with it."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

As well as being the rapporteur for the European Year of People with Disabilities 2003, Liz Lynne MEP also drafted the European Parliament's report supporting a UN Convention on Disabled People's Rights.