Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 37: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans for the implementation of the national disability strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16729/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Disability Strategy was launched in September 2004 and its implementation continues to be the focus of Government policy. Key elements include the Disability Act 2005, the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004, the Citizens Information Act 2007 and the Sectoral Plans of six Departments which set out how they will deliver services to people with disabilities.

The National Disability Strategy is, in large measure, being implemented. Its implementation is monitored on an ongoing basis by the National Disability Strategy Stakeholder Monitoring Group which comprises Senior Officials from the relevant Departments, the Disability Stakeholder Group representing the sector, the National Disability Authority and Social Partners. Significant progress has been made to date through Departmental Sectoral Plans and the National Disability Authority continues to engage with Departments in this regard.

The Programme for Government commits to publishing, following wide consultation, a realistic implementation plan for the National Disability Strategy, including sectoral plans with achievable timescales and targets within available resources and ensuring whole-of-government involvement and monitoring of the Strategy, in partnership with the disability sector.

In line with this commitment I am currently assessing the monitoring and implementation structures already in place and what may now be required to re-energise the Strategy and its implementation.