My Department currently has, and has had for some time, the lead role in coordinating the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) across Departments.
In accordance with Article 33 of the UNCRPD, my Department is designated as Ireland’s Focal Point and Coordination Mechanism. My Department has responsibility for preparing and submitting Ireland’s Initial State report to the Committee. This process is at an advanced stage.
The whole of Government strategy, the National Disability Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) is, alongside the Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities (CES), the key framework for policy and action to address the needs of persons with disabilities. Through 123 actions, the NDIS supports effective progress in delivering on the obligations set out in the Convention.
The NDIS Steering Group is chaired by my colleague the Minister of State with responsibility for Disability, Anne Rabbitte, T.D., and includes representatives of Government Departments and Agencies and the Disability Stakeholder Group (DSG). Implementation of the NDIS is monitored at regular meetings through a reporting system which requires Government Departments and Agencies to detail their progress biannually. The group is supported by independent analysis and advice from the National Disability Authority (NDA). My Department is responsible for the coordination of the NDIS.
Following a mid-term review of the NDIS, it was agreed that Ireland will develop a UNCRPD implementation plan. Government departments and agencies will be requested to develop their own plans for implementation that will link with the national plan. In addition, the Programme for Government made a commitment to the development of the UNCRPD Plan and my Department will act as the main co-ordination point on it.
