Tom Clonan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

My final question, on disabled citizens’ voices, is for Ms Weldon and Ms Kenny. Ms Weldon said that we should move forward ideally by co-creating, not just by consulting or, as is often the case, saying, “Take it or leave it”. Most commonly, people are told there is nothing for them, meaning they must rely on their elderly parents until they go into crisis, after which, as was suggested to me, a sibling is expected to take on the responsibility. I am very disappointed to hear there is reluctance in local authorities to be proactive in this regard, but I am not surprised. This has been a common feature of our experience. Apart from suggesting the full ratification of all the protocols of the UNCRPD, which mandates DPOs to be the first line of engagement in anything to do with the disability community, can the delegates point to a Department or initiative that allows them a co-creation opportunity? Ms Kenny or Ms Weldon, or both, may respond.