Disability Matters Committee to discuss the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 and the establishment of the Decision Support Service (DSS)

The meeting at 12:30pm in Committee Room 2 of Leinster House will hear from representatives from the Decision Support Service (DSS).

In advance of the meeting Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Michael Moynihan said: “The Committee and I look forward to hearing from the Decision Support Service representatives at today’s meeting and insight into the key reforms introduced by the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015. Updates on the Wards of Courts  system and its abolition; the rights of a ‘relevant person’; and the area of ‘Decisions’ including information on the framework of supports available, or will be available, to individuals and the role of the Decision Support Service (DSS).”

The Cathaoirleach went on to say: “Members and I are cognisant that the full commencement of the Act requires a transformation in thinking across every aspect of society to allow its full potential.

It will be important that the Director of the Decision Support Service is given adequate resources in the coming years to execute DSS functions sufficiently to ensure that people who need it are supported to fully participate in society, living a life of their choosing and playing an active role in decisions about their personal welfare, property and affairs.”

The meeting in Committee Room 2 can be viewed live on the Oireachtas website.

The Joint Committee on Disability Matters has 14 Members, nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad. More information can be found on the dedicated Committee Webpage. Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.