The Special Needs Action Group (SNAG) has said that today is a “very sad day for Gibraltar” after a family protested outside Number Six to highlight the problems faced by their daughter.

A statement continued: “Today is a very sad day for Gibraltar. A family has felt the need to chain themselves to No 6 to highlight the issues they have been going through with their disabled daughter.

“This is extremely concerning and very serious. A family driven to this extreme action is heartbreaking! Their issues are not new to anyone within the relevant government departments. Everyone that needs to know understands the complexities of the situation but for some reason, the issues have not been tackled adequately and we have arrived at a point where extreme measures have been taken.

“You will now hear comforting words form Government ministers that they are doing all they can to sort this out but the reality of the situation is that the problem existed yesterday, the day before yesterday, the day before that, and the problem is here today and tomorrow and the day after until a solution is found. 

“This family doesn’t need comforting words, they need actions and solutions.

“It is unfortunate that, had there been a long term plan in place 15 years ago, the family would not be in this predicament today!  

“SNAG will continue highlighting the issues people with disabilities have because we do not want to live in a society that marginalises people because they so happen to have a disability. Anyone with ‘complex needs’ have equal rights as to those that don’t. 

“We urge all the relevant government department to work together to give this family hope, by working out a short-term plan, and a better future by agreeing a long term plan where dignity and equality is at the top of the agenda.”