Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 February 2024
390. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of submissions received to-date to the consultation on the Green Paper on Disability Reform; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8032/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government committed as part of the Roadmap for Social Inclusion to develop and consult on proposals to restructure long-term disability payments and to simplify the system. The proposals developed are set out in the Green Paper on Disability Reform.
The Green Paper is a consultation document. No final decisions have been made. The Paper’s purpose is to invite discussion, debate, and suggestions.
My officials also held a stakeholder event and four public consultations events in October and November last year. My Department are also holding bilateral meetings with Disabled Persons Organisations and disability groups. The feedback from these events and meetings will also be considered as part of the public consultation.
My Department has received 274 submissions to date; 261 submissions from individuals and 13 submissions from Disabled Persons’ Organisations and disability groups.
We want to hear from as many disabled people and their representatives as possible. For this reason, I have extended the closing date for the public consultation to 15 March 2024. People can make a submission in writing or by video. I encourage everybody with an interest in improving lives of people with disabilities to engage in the consultation process. I am open to all ideas and suggestions.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
