Dr. Emer Begley:

I will answer the first question on the definition. As I mentioned in the opening statement, the definition that is currently used is medical and negative, using terms "malfunction", "disfigurement" and "disturbed", so it perpetuates many of the stereotypes about disability, such as that it is an undesirable state and that having a disability means there is something wrong with the person. We would advocate for a move towards a definition that leans into the social model of disability, whereby disability is seen as a result of the way society is structured and the way it creates obstacles for the person. The definition used in the UNCRPD is one we would advocate for. This states that "persons with disabilities include those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others." The phrase "equal basis with others" is an extremely important element of that definition. Dr. Raley will answer the second question.