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Disability Sector Should Have Distinct Voice in Social Partnership

16 June 2003

People with disabilities should have separate and distinct representation in the Social Partnership, the Chief Executive of People with Disabilities in Ireland (PwDI), Michael D. Ringrose said today (Monday June 16). PwDI is a Government-funded but totally independent body which represents people with all disabilities nationwide.

"It is estimated that there are 360,000 people, or one in every 10, who have some form of disability in this country," he said. "Clearly, such a sizeable sector should have its own voice at the Partnership talks. The fact that this is such a vulnerable sector makes the case all the more compelling."

Mr Ringrose said that the disability sector felt totally left out of the last partnership talks and that their voice was not listened to in this year's Budget or in the provisions of the Finance Bill. Many areas in the sector have insufficient funding for this year and it was critical that they be given a voice at national level where agreements are hammered out and agreed.

"This year two major events are happening," he said. "It is European Year of People with Disabilities and many events are taking place to mark its significance. Secondly, the Special Olympics World Summer Games begin next weekend and there will be huge international focus on Ireland. The granting of a separate voice to people with disabilities in the Social Partnership would be a major step forward in the giving of full recognition to this sector."

Mr Ringrose said he is writing to the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern TD and the Chairman of the Social Partnership talks, Dermot McCarthy. He said it was particular important to listen to the voice of young people with disabilities and that is why PwDI is organising a major National Seminar in September to be officially opened by President McAleese.

"A move by the Government to give a separate voice to people with disabilities in the Social Partnership talks would be seen as a real commitment to this sector and would put Ireland to the forefront of showing regard and respect for this large sector of society," he concluded.

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