PL MP Amanda Spiteri Grech Pushes For Right To Be Forgotten For Cancer Survivors
Labour MP Amanda Spiteri Grech is pushing for a new law that would give cancer survivors the right for their illnesses to be “forgotten” when applying for a job or accessing financial services.
The proposal states that, after a specified period – ten years from the end of treatment for adults aged 21 and over, and five years for those treated before that age – cancer survivors will no longer be required to disclose their past diagnosis for financial services or employment purposes.
This would align Malta with countries like Belgium, France, Spain, Romania, Italy, the Netherlands, and Cyprus, which have all implemented similar laws.
Spiteri Grech stressed that society should recognise the dignity of cancer survivors and ensure they aren’t penalised for life because of an illness they have already overcome.
She warned that, despite the significant progress in medicine and treatment outcomes, many survivors often face discrimination in employment and when accessing financial services, such as higher insurance premiums or outright refusals.
“This is a matter of justice and dignity,” she said. “Once a medical expert declares that a patient is cured, this should be reflected in how society and institutions treat them.”
The proposal would also establish a special review board, composed of two medical professionals and a lawyer, to resolve any potential disputes, such as regarding the official last date of treatment.
This proposal is currently open for public consultation until 26th September, and citizens are invited to share their views by sending feedback to [email protected].
Photo: Amanda Spiteri Grech
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