People with Disabilities in Ireland
4th Floor Jervis House
Jervis Street
Dublin 1
Telephone: 01 87 21 74 4
Fax: 01 87 21 77 1
Email: info@pwdi.ie
The Government's National Disability Strategy could mark a new dawn for people with disabilities in Ireland. However, there is a long way to go yet. Much amendment is needed before we see positive effects on the day-to-day lives' of people with disabilities. These must continue to be articulated, communicated and fought for, before the Disability Bill, now on its way through the Dáil, becomes law and before the wider strategy is implemented.
To date, PwDI has taken a lead role in identifying the shortcomings inherent in both the Disability Bill and the related sectoral plans for the various Government departments. The National Board held a special meeting to consider in detail the implications and the Chief Executive, Michael Ringrose publicised the Board's views across the local and national media. Following briefings with each of the Networks throughout the country the organisation's comprehensive views have been documented and continue to be communicated across the policy and political framework. Read more inside.
International Day of Disabled Persons
To mark this special day, December 3rd, PwDI is hosting a countrywide series of special lunches focused on the issue of the Barcelona Declaration, for which Local Authorities hold responsibility.
Local Authorities will have the opportunity of informing PwDI, and other key stakeholders in the disability community, of their plans in relation to the implementation of the various elements of the Barcelona Declaration.
It is our intention that this initiative will help strengthen and develop closer co-operation and collaboration between Local Authorities and PwDI. We will be seeking to agree a protocol whereby Local Authorities consult on a formal basis with PwDI, perhaps once a year.
This International Day of Disabled Persons special initiative also provides an opportunity to engage the local media. So, let us all work together to make sure it becomes a big success and builds on the excellent work being carried out by our members, locally and nationally.
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