Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit agus déanaim comhghairdeas léi. Gabhaim buíochas léi agus tá súil agam go mbeidh an t-ádh léi. It is both an honour and privilege to address the House as Fianna Fáil spokesperson on children and disability on an issue that is very close to my heart: the advancement of the rights and the improvement of the lives of people with disabilities in our country. This is not just about policy or politics; this is about building a society that cherishes all of its people equally. Fianna Fáil has long been committed to this principle. I wish to reaffirm our unwavering dedication to ensuring equality, dignity and opportunity for all.

One of the most transformative and meaningful steps we took as a Government was the transfer of the responsibility for disability from the Department of Health to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. This move was not just a procedural adjustment. It was a fundamental reimagining of how we approach disability issues in Ireland by embedding the principles of the UNCRPD into policymaking across government. We made a conscious decision to adopt a rights-based approach. This approach ensures that people with disabilities are not merely recipients of services but are active participants in shaping policies that impact their lives. It acknowledges their autonomy, voices and contributions to our society.

In addition to this structural shift, Fianna Fáil has spearheaded significant reforms designed to modernise and humanise our approach to disability. One of the most notable achievements in this regard has been the abolition of the outdated and paternalistic wardship system. This system, which deprived individuals of their agency and decision-making powers, has been replaced by the Decision Support Service. This is a progressive framework that empowers individuals to make choices about their own lives, while providing support where and if necessary. This change reflects our broader commitment to respecting the dignity and autonomy of every individual in the State.

Recognising the unique challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, we launched Ireland's first autism innovation strategy. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to foster innovation in service delivery, improve access to education and employment opportunities and create a society that is inclusive and accommodating of neurodiversity. It is a clear demonstration of our dedication to addressing the specific needs of all members of our community.

Our commitment to improving the lives of people with disabilities is not just reflected in policy reforms but also in our financial priorities. Since 2020, Fianna Fáil has increased funding for disability services by more than 50%. This significant investment underscores our recognition of the critical need to support services, programmes and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. These funds have been directed towards improving access to healthcare, education, housing and employment for individuals with disabilities, ensuring that they have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive and yet, as proud as we are of these achievements, we do recognise that there is still a lot of work to be done. The challenges faced by people with disabilities in Ireland are complex and addressing them requires a comprehensive whole-of-government approach. That is why the programme for Government includes a robust set of commitments and actions to be delivered for people with disabilities, as well as for those working in the disability sector. These commitments are not merely aspirations; they are concrete goals backed by actionable plans.

A key element of our strategy going forward is the Action Plan for Disability Services 2024-2026. This plan represents a bold and forward-thinking vision for the expansion of disability services to meet the expected demographic changes and to address existing unmet needs. For example, the plan outlines the addition of 600 extra full-time staff within children's disability services ensuring that young people and their families receive timely and effective support. Additionally, the plan provides for 1,200 new day service places each year ensuring that school leavers with disabilities have the opportunities and resources they need to transition seamlessly into adulthood and to pursue their aspirations. Since the publication of this ambitious plan, €42 million has been provided for the disability services, reflecting our commitment to turning plans into action. Budget 2025 allocated €336 million in additional funding for the disability services. This funding will be directed towards initiatives such as improving access to digital supports, which are increasingly essential in today's world, and providing one off grants designed to enhance the quality of life for those who rely on these vital services.These investments are not just about meeting immediate needs; they are about building a foundation for long term progress. As we strive to implement these initiatives and fulfil our commitments, we do so with the understanding that our ultimate goal is an Ireland where every individual, regardless of ability or disability, is empowered to reach their full potential. It should be all about them. This means addressing not only the practical challenges but also fostering a culture of inclusion, a culture of understanding, and a culture of respect. It means breaking down barriers and ensuring people with disabilities are not just included but valued as active and equal participants in our society.

I also wish to mention the families of people with a disability, particularly those with an acquired disability or parents with a new baby that has been diagnosed with a disability. I have dealt a lot with parents over the years. One mother described receiving the news about her child having a disability as similar to planning to go to Spain on holidays, having learned Spanish with everything packed, and then landing in France, not knowing the language, where to go or who to turn to. We have to think about and support the parents, especially those with newborn babies, and the families of people with acquired disabilities. It is not what they planned or what they thought their lives would be.

As we reflect on the progress we have made, and the challenges that lie ahead, let us remember that the true measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members. By this measure, without a doubt, we still have work to do. However, we can take pride in the strides we have made and the vision we have for the future. Fianna Fáil remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the rights and improving the lives of peoples with disabilities. Together, let us continue to build a more inclusive Ireland where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, the opportunity to contribute and the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.