Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

The Minister is very aware of this and there is a commitment relating to the planning and the initial acquisition of the site that shows clear intent. Notwithstanding the other aspects I identified, once the Government has committed money in the first instance, the natural expectation is that the project will be built. The Deputy has, in a very direct and open way based on his intimate knowledge and understanding of the project, set out a very clear and comprehensive case. I am sure that he will continue to hold the Government to account on this in the coming weeks and months to ensure that a facility like this will progress. Notwithstanding the various elements I have outlined, it is important we progress with that.

The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to improving disability services and ensuring that individuals with disabilities and their families receive the necessary supports. The Government made it very clear in the programme for Government that disability would be a priority. By implementing strategic policies, increasing financial investment and fostering a cross-departmental approach the Government and the Department of Children, Disability and Equality aim to build an inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunity to prosper. I know that is the core of the Deputy’s interest in this. Organisations like An Saol are invaluable to the disability sector because they bring forward imaginative ideas and drive them from that perspective. The Department of Children, Disability and Equality is dedicated to ensuring that such organisations receive the necessary funding and the policy support to continue growing and expanding their services. Their efforts strengthen the overall disability support infrastructure, creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all. Indeed, Ireland’s commitment to disability rights is demonstrated by its ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in March 2018.

The ongoing support for organisations like An Saol aligns with the objectives of the UNCRPD reflects the Government’s dedication to implementing its provision at national level.

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