Disability Matters Committee to discuss public awareness of living with a disability with Family Carers Ireland and disability activist Catherine Gallagher

The following representatives are to appear:

Catherine Gallagher – PhD student and Disability Activist
Catherine Cox – Head of Communications and Carer Engagement at Family Carers Ireland
Jane Johnstone- Caring Employers Promotions Officer – Family Carers Ireland

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Michael Moynihan said: “We welcome the opportunity to discuss this important topic with representatives."

"Ireland has some 355,0001 family carers. Family Carers Ireland is a national charity that works to improve supports and recognition for families and friends caring for someone who is ill, frail, disabled or has a mental health difficulty.”

"Catherine Gallagher is well known for her advocacy for the rights of people with disabilities. Her work led to the Government allowing PhD students to continue their scholarships while retaining their disability allowance.”

 “Catherine’s work and the work of other people with disabilities to bring issues in the media also highlights how this can take an emotional toll on those who have to go public with their issues and advocacy work in cases where the State does not fulfill its obligations."

Watch the meeting live here or on the Oireachtas smartphone app for Apple and Android.