Disability Matters Committee resumes discussion on participation of people with disabilities in political, cultural, community, and public life

The Committee is meeting this morning at 9:30 am in Committee Room 2 of Leinster House will hear from:

• Irish Deaf Society - Elaine Grehan, Advocacy Manager, Lianne Quigley, Chairperson and John Sherwin, Chief Executive Officer
• LEAP - Rachel Cassen, Co-Founder and Executive Director and Deirdre Fitzgerald, Mother, Leap Board Member
• National Platform of Self Advocates - Joe McGrath, Vice Chair

 In advance of the meeting Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Michael Moynihan said: “This week’s meeting will continue the investigation into the participation of people with disabilities in political, cultural, community and public life but will specifically consider the representation of people with disabilities in decision making and supporting the participation of Disabled Persons' Organisations (DPOs) in line with the commitment made under Article 33 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and considering the Covid 19 Response.”

The Cathaoirleach went on to say: “It is important that people with disabilities are put at the centre of decision-making processes regarding decisions that affect their lives and are consulted with in relation to key policy responses. The participation and consultation of people with disabilities is key to the UNCRPD and this meeting will consider how we can ensure that children with disabilities, those with intellectual disabilities and deaf people are meaningfully included in that consultation.

The Committee is looking forward to hearing from representatives from the Irish Deaf Society, LEAP and the National Platform of Self Advocates on this important topic and the Committee welcomes the opportunity to continue this important conversation.”

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.