Confirmation that the optional protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will come into force in Ireland on November 30, while very welcome news, should not distract from the Government’s indefensible delay in ratifying it, according to Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns.
“Ireland signed the UNCRPD as far back as 2007 and ratified it in 2018. Disgracefully, it is only 17 years later – just one day after an expected general election – that the optional protocol will come into legal effect.
“The optional protocol will allow disabled people to make a complaint to the UN and hold the Irish State accountable if their rights are breached.
“But the real irony is that, due to the timing of the general election, this Government will never be held accountable for its multiple failings on disability issues.
“There is no excuse for the unacceptable delay in ratifying the optional protocol. Instead of seeking credit for today’s welcome announcement – which has largely come about due to the tireless work of disability campaigners – the Government should explain why it has taken so long to get to this point.”
November 6, 2024