Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 April 2023
724. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage what financial, personal assistant, administrative or other supports are available for persons with disabilities before, during and after an election campaign, and perhaps elected office at local Government level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16704/23]
View answerWith regard to individuals with a disability who wish to stand for election to local government, my Department is not aware that there are financial, personal assistant, administrative or other supports available before or during an election campaign. Such supports would tend to be a matter for the political parties on whose behalf individuals are standing as candidates or the individuals themselves. Notwithstanding that position, in the context of the nominations process for candidates, it should be noted that returning officers are officers of the Courts and as such must comply with requirements on disability access that apply across the civil and public service.
Once elected, members may avail of the Local Representation Allowance whereby Councillors can engage secretarial/administrative support under a contract of services on a vouched basis within the terms of that allowance.
It is the responsibility of the relevant local authority to ensure practical and appropriate access to its buildings and services under the Disability Act of 2005.
Following engagement with disability representative groups, my Department are currently considering how our initiatives promoting diversity in local government could potentially be expanded to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Additionally, officials from my Department have recently engaged with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth in relation to a planned task force examining proposals for closer coordination and implementation structures regarding local government and the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Ireland.
