Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am glad to hear there is evidence of interdepartmental co-operation, which is sadly lacking in most aspects of Government life here. I hope that continues because it is vital to ensure that all voices are heard, especially for a sector that makes up such a large part of our society, but unfortunately is largely hidden and not seen or noticed by us policymakers.

I heard at a committee meeting that 24% of people with disabilities have difficulty even accessing their ability to vote and 52% who have postal votes have difficulties in using that facility. Some 55% have difficulty contacting a public representative. I have a role in ensuring we are more accessible to people and I will be working to ensure that is the case. The Government can do a considerable amount and I am glad that it is making progress. However, that needs to continue and it needs to be strengthened because we must make politics accessible, as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities outlines.

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