Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy that there is a lot more to be done. The convention covers a broad range of commitments which require substantive cultural change. Fundamental to that are the concepts of freedom, autonomy, independence and recognising the right of people with disabilities to make decisions for themselves. In this regard, I have received a report on personalised budgets, on which I brought a memo to Cabinet last Tuesday.

The Government's approach to meeting the terms of the convention will be one of sustained and ongoing improvement. Work is continuing on the reforms needed for the optimal level of compliance with the convention's requirements. In the early implementation phase it is essential that the resources are focused on the improvement and enhancement of services and not diverted into additional areas such as servicing the optional protocol before we are fully ready. For this reason, the Government and I see a phased approach as the more practical and realistic way of moving forward. The optional protocol is not being ratified at this time but it will be ratified as soon as possible, and at the latest following the completion of Ireland's first reporting cycle which will be within two to three years' time. This will provide us with the opportunity to identify any remaining actions needed for the highest level of compliance with the convention.