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

The plan for the review will be extremely positive. I worked very closely with the Minister, Deputy Fitzgerald, during the negotiations on this issue because it is very important. We have very competent people in the NDA and I work very closely with them. In the past 12 months, I have also met over 4,000 stakeholders, including parents of children with disabilities, adults with disabilities, service providers and the broader disability community, and we will ensure that this will be a progressive and inclusive strategy. I accept the point that it has taken longer than everyone hoped it would take but as the Deputy will be aware, one of the reasons for the delay was the 2016 general election and the subsequent length of time it took to form a new Government. Work on the strategy was suspended during those months, and the lengthy consultation process was a further reason for the delay. However, I stand over the amount of time put aside for the process, which was extremely worthwhile and generated a significant number of suggestions, feedback and positive inputs which were incorporated into the strategy. I am determined that the strategy will be successful and implemented and that it will make a difference to the lives of people with a disability. This was a very important issue during the talks on a programme for Government.

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