Disability Committee to discuss aligning education with the UNCPRD with Down Syndrome Ireland, Cope Foundation, Open Doors Initiative and Connect 4 Work

The meeting will take place in Committee Room 4 of Leinster House between 9:45am-12:30pm. The meeting will take place in Committee Room 4 of Leinster House between 9:45am-12:30pm. 

The UNCRPD article 24 on education for those with disabilities and calls for States parties to ensure the realisation of the right of persons with disabilities to education through an inclusive education system at all levels, and for all students, without discrimination and on an equal basis with others, while ensuring reasonable accommodation of the individual’s requirements is provided.

The following representatives are due to attend. 

• Representatives from Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI), Dr. Fidelma Brady, Head of Education, Rita Walsh, Chairperson, Kildare DSI & Grainne Gorey, Secretary, Kildare DSI

• Representatives from Open Doors Initiative, Claire Hayes, Disability Co-Ordinator

• Representatives from Cope Foundation, Marian Hennessy, Programme Co-Ordinator & Craig Kelly

• Representatives from Connect 4 Work , Mary Finn, Owner and Managing Director

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Michael Moynihan said: “This is the first of a series of meetings covering the topic of ‘Aligning Education with the UNCRPD’. The Committee will hear from stakeholders working in the area of education for people with disabilities.” 

“The purpose of the UNCRPD is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities. As we reach the two year anniversary of the pandemic, tomorrow’s meeting is a timely opportunity to consider how we can promote access, inclusivity and participation in education.”

“Our meeting on Thursday will consider the lived experience of service users in availing of education and training and its limitations. The Committee looks forward to discussing these topics and the wider debate with our guests.”

The meeting can be viewed live on the Oireachtas website here.

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.