Government must act on disability inclusion
Government must act on disability inclusion - The Labour Party
Labour’s Senator Laura Harmon has welcomed the launch of the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025–2030, but warned that without urgent and sustained action across Government, the strategy risks becoming another document left to gather dust. Speaking following the launch today, Senator Harmon called for immediate prioritisation of employment, education, healthcare access, and housing supports to ensure disabled people can live independently and participate fully in Irish society.
Senator Harmon said:
“This strategy marks a significant milestone in the advancement of disability rights in Ireland, but it must be backed by real action, not just lip service. Ireland currently has the worst employment rate for disabled people in the EU. That is a national disgrace and must be addressed as a matter of urgency. We need targeted pathways into education and employment, not more empty promises.
“Assessment of needs waiting lists are soaring, leaving families in limbo and children without the supports they need. The staffing and retention crisis in Children’s Disability Network Teams is compounding this issue. Without a properly resourced workforce, the strategy’s ambitions will never be realised.
“Accessibility remains a major barrier. Public transport is still not universally accessible, and active travel infrastructure is failing disabled people. Footpath repairs were raised again today – this is a basic issue that affects mobility and safety, and it must be addressed nationally.
“Housing is another area where disabled people are being failed. Universal design must be embedded in all new builds, and local authorities must be supported to provide the necessary housing and community support to enable independent living. Disabled people have the right to participate fully in their communities – that means accessible homes, streets, and services.
“This strategy must be implemented in collaboration with disabled people and the organisations that represent them. Inclusion Ireland and other advocacy groups have long highlighted the need for safeguarding, accountability, and meaningful consultation. Their voices must be central to every stage of implementation.
“The Government must ensure this strategy doesn’t sit on a shelf. We need to see action – not just ambition. Labour will continue to hold the Government to account to ensure disabled people are no longer left behind.”