The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) welcomes today's judgment delivered in the district court.

EOC Chairperson, Ms. Anna WU said, "The unique aspect of the cases is that the plaintiffs were penalized not for something that they had done or had failed to do, but rather because of the mental illness of their family members and the stigmatization associated with mental illness."

Stereotypical assumptions about people suffering from mental illness are rampant. Misconceptions about such illnesses must be removed, as must discriminatory practices which do not judge an individual on his/her merits.

The plaintiffs themselves never suffered from any mental illness and were at all times capable of performing the duties of the jobs. The judgment hightlights the concern that genetics should not be used to discriminate against or stigmatize individuals.

"Today's judgment underlines the need for the government to review its existing recruitment policies, to ensure that they are fair and unbiased, and that they comply with the law," said Ms. WU.

The EOC will be launching a campaign on mental illness at its Equal Opportunities Expo on October 22, 2000 to promote the understanding and awareness of mental illness.

"As mental illness is projected to affect one fifth of the world's population in the 21st century, this issue will form a major area of our research and public awareness education in the coming months," said Ms. WU.

Enquiry: EOC Hotline      25118211