Gnien Arka was officially inaugurated on Thursday morning in a ceremony held at the Arka Respite Centre in Ghajnsielem. This is another ambitious project completed through the unfailing endeavours of the Arka Foundation with the help and support of several Maltese and Gozitan entities and individuals. Gnien Arka is annexed to the Respite Centre, which, since December 2000, has been offering its services to disabled persons and their families. All this is performed within the guidelines of the Foundation's main principle, which is that of promoting the welfare of people with special needs and of their families, irrispective of their nationality, through its philosophy based on the individual's fundamental right to dignity, respect and confidentiality.

The Rev. Mgr. Emanuel Curmi, founder/director of the Arka Foundation, explained that this garden adds to the centre's facilities and enhances its environment for the benefit of clients using the services of Dar Arka. The project involved the levelling of the ground, the planting of trees and plants as well as other works connected with the formation of pathways and the installation of lights and garden furniture. A central pagoda and a fountain continued to complement the works effected and gave the garden a more tranquil touch.

In a message for the occassion, the Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, praised the worthy work carried out by the Arka Foundation towards the benefit of disabled persons in Gozo. The social sector is one which needs continuous attention and today we can say that our country has made considerable progress in this regard. This would not have been possible were it not for the strong presence of voluntary work and initiatives taken up by individuals and other entitites such as Arka Foundation. These organisations are an important source through which awareness about the particular needs of individuals is increased, whilst also serving as a concrete means to which these individuals recur for refuge and support. It is for this purpose that the Ministry for Gozo continuously supports the voluntary sector, especially the one on Gozo.

A commemorative plaque was unveiled by the popular couple Karl and Romina Bonaci, who were instrumental in raising funds relative to this project through their programme 'Kollox Sibt'. Other contributions were donated by several local Councils, the Ministry for Gozo, groups and other entities as well as through personal donations. Rev. Archpriest Frank Bajada blessed the new facilities in this garden.

Facilities at Dar Arka include heated pools, therapeutic baths, multi-sensory and light and studio. The Arka Foundation intends to continue enhancing the area by adding a playing field next to the garden, which would be furnished by appropriate swings and other specialised accessories. The general public is invited to visit these facilities during the Gozo 1234 activity which is being held during this weekend in Gozo. Opening hours are between 9.30a.m. and 12.00pm. Additional information may also be found on the foundation's website www.arkafoundation.org.