European Year of People with Disabilities

Social Affairs and Employment Commissioner Anna Diamantopoulou formally launched the 2003 European Year of People with Disabilities (EYPD) in December. The Year will focus on breaking down the barriers and discrimination disabled people face in their working, home and social lives. During the year, a bus will travel to every Member State to raise awareness of disability, and local communities will organise events focussing on disabled people's rights. The bus will be in the UK between 2 June and 2 July and will visit Ireland from 2-9 July. For further information about the Year and the bus route, visit the EYPD website at,