Denis Naughten
Question:245 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to introduce a comprehensive and mandatory rights-based Disability Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14951/02]
Written Answers. - Proposed Legislation.
The Agreed Programme for Government commits the Government to complete consultations on the Disability Bill and bring the amended Bill through the Oireachtas with provisions for rights of assessment, appeals, provision and enforcement.
The consultation process on the Disability Bill was agreed by Government earlier this year in response to a call from disability groups. A five member consultation team was appointed in April and will meet with interested parties including the disability legislation consultation group, DLCG, ICTU, IBEC, the Fourth Pillar and relevant Departments over the coming months.
The DLCG is a group representative of people with disabilities, their families, carers and service providers, which has been brought together by the National Disability Authority, NDA, at the request of the then Minister of State to facilitate meaningful dialogue at national level, both within the sector and with the consultation team.
It is my intention and that of my colleague Minister of State, Deputy Willie O'Dea, in accordance with the commitment given in An Agreed Programme for Government, to complete the consultation process and bring an amended Bill through the Oireachtas as soon as practicable thereafter.