The Social Democrats will insist on a full Minister for Disability as a precondition for their participation in any future Government after the general election, according to party leader Holly Cairns.
“We clearly need a senior Minister for Disability so the interests of disabled people in Ireland are represented at the Cabinet table. This will be a dealbreaker for my party in any Government formation talks.
“Our demand for a full Disability Minister is contained in the Social Democrats’ disability policy, which will be launched tomorrow. It will also outline our plans to properly resource disability services, address staffing shortages and provide oversight and accountability.
“More than one million people in Ireland report having a disability or disabling condition. This group is at significantly greater risk of experiencing poverty, social exclusion and unemployment, as well as facing barriers in areas such as transport, housing and education.
“Throughout their lives, disabled people face constant obstacles when trying to access the basic supports and services they are entitled to.
“This Government has wasted opportunity after opportunity to improve the lives of disabled people. In fact, they care so little about the challenges they face that they presented a budget this month which the ESRI has stated will actually increase poverty levels among disabled people.
“The next Government must do better. This is why we need a senior Minister for Disability.
“Not because a Cabinet minister will miraculously solve every issue. But because disability services need a strong voice at the Cabinet table to ensure services are a priority for the next Government – not some afterthought.”
October 16, 2024