Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Much of what I wanted to say has already been articulated. I commend the Minister of State on how he is dealing with the SOLAS issue, etc.

I was at an international conference in Austria over the weekend that dealt specifically with unemployment among the disabled throughout the world, particularly in Europe. Graduates with disabilities face a serious problem in getting a fair crack of the whip at interviews. Last week, we noted the results of the epilepsy society's survey indicating that one in two employers would not give a job to somebody with epilepsy. This is absolutely appalling in this day and age. Furthermore, one in five members of the public felt people with epilepsy are being stigmatised because of their condition. This is just one example. If the same survey was carried out in regard to other disabilities, I have no doubt the figures would reflect exactly the same trend. This is a pan-European problem. There is absolutely no reason this country cannot become a model of best practice in dealing with the problem and ensuring people with disabilities are given the same opportunities once they have proven they have the ability and skillset to do a job. By ensuring this, a disability would not hinder one at interview or in securing the job.

There is no point in Ireland seeking a model of international best practice because it does not exist, except in the United States. Therefore, we need to set the standard for international best practice. The vast majority of people in this nation believe in equality, yet their view is not manifesting itself considering what I have said is the practice on the ground, that is, the breaching of basic human rights, namely, the rights to work, pay one's taxes and contribute to society.

The Minister of State's Department has a critical role to play in that people with disabilities who are capable of acquiring the necessary skillset have the opportunity to do so. We need to see very focused tailor-made programmes to deal with this epidemic. That is all it can be described as. Many people with disabilities are in so-called sheltered employment or internships. All this is doing is making the figures look good. One would be frightened by the real unemployment statistics pertaining to the disabled.