Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
423. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the supports available to councillors with disabilities when they are elected; if local authorities are required to provide supports; what provisions are in place; if statutory requirements are in place; the additional measures he intends to introduce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10630/24]
View answerIt is the responsibility of each local authority to ensure appropriate supports are in place for elected members with disabilities, alongside a statutory responsibility to ensure practical and appropriate access to its buildings and services under the Disability Act of 2005.
Obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, along with the Public Sector Duty placed on all public bodies, contribute to the development of a framework within which local authorities can ensure equitable access to policies, services and facilities for everyone, including elected members.
As part of the package of remuneration available to local authority elected members, members are entitled to avail of the Local Representation Allowance (LRA). Under the terms of this allowance of €5,160 p.a., a member may claim on a vouched basis a broad range of eligible expenses, including should they wish to engage secretarial or administrative supports to assist them in their work.
Furthermore, my Department also issues annual calls for funding to local authorities to encourage more diversity in local government decision making and structures. Local authorities would, for example, be able to submit proposals that deliver necessary accessibility or infrastructural changes to facilitate and encourage the participation of elected members with disabilities.
