Finian McGrath
Question:134 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the proposed disability Bill; and when it will be introduced. [10339/04]
View answerThursday, 1 April 2004
Questions (134)
Written answers
It is my intention to circulate a disability Bill as soon as possible in the coming weeks. Given the complex and cross cutting issues involved, the preparation of the Bill is being overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion. The committee and the Government are finalising their deliberations about the Bill with a view to its publication at the earliest possible date.
The disability Bill is a key part of the framework being put in place by the Government to underpin the equal participation by people with disabilities in Irish society and includes: the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill 2003, which is on Report Stage in the Dáil; the Comhairle (Amendment) Bill which is being prepared in the Department of Social and Family Affairs in relation to the provision of advocacy services; sectoral plans for key public services; and equality legislation to be updated by the Equality Bill 2004, which is currently on Second Stage in the Dáil.