[Greens-Media] MARK PARNELL MLC: Dignity for disabled required in sex worker debate, say Greens

[Greens]

Media Release
15th September 2006


Essential health services for disabled South Australians should never be
used as a political football, says Greens MLC Mark Parnell.

The call by Family First for police involvement and for funding to be
stripped from SHine SA for pro-actively engaging with sex workers who
provide services for disabled people is an in-sensitive over-reaction.

"Disability should not have to equal celibacy.  Whether some people like
it or not, disabled people do regularly access sex workers.  It only
makes sense for relevant government-funded agencies to be pro-active
about ensuring these people are not being ripped off, abused or
otherwise harmed," the Greens MLC said.      

Before entering Parliament, Mark worked for some time as a full-time
carer for a man with cerebral palsy who occasionally used sex workers. 

"Although this man had a University Masters degree and was highly
intelligent and great company, he did have severe physical disabilities.
His was a classic case of a consenting, intelligent adult who chose to
use a sex worker. However, due to his disability he was unable to access
these services without assistance. 

"Examples like his emphasise the vital importance of a sensitive and
dignified policy response for all disabled people.  

"Rather than being criticised, I think SHine SA and the Sex Industry
Network should be congratulated for proactively training sex workers in
this area. This approach helps protect vulnerable people who choose to
use these services from exploitation," he said.


For further comment contact Craig Wilkins on 0434 007 893







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