Vietnam puts forth equal rights law for disabled people

From Viet Nam News:

HA NOI, Vietnam — The Law on People with Disabilities was promulgated July 10, paving the way for equal opportunities for this group.

The law, that was endorsed by President Nguyen Minh Triet, sets out the rights and responsibilities of a disabled person, as well as the obligations of the State, relatives and society.

Certain disabled people will be eligible for monthly social allowances and burial costs if they die after the legal document comes into effect at the beginning of next year.

The relatives of people with severe disabilities will also receive a monthly pension, as will carers and the disabled person if they are pregnant or the parent of a child under three years old.

The State will also cover the costs of a social protection centre for homeless people with severe disabilities.

"I'm so happy and feel protected under the new law. I look forward to the moment when it comes into effect," said Nguyen Trung Quan, a Ha Noi resident who suffered a serious work accident seven years ago.