Landmark Disability Strategy marks ‘major milestone’ for the people of Ireland – Deputy Martin Daly

New Five-Year Disability Strategy aims to break down barriers

Fianna Fáil TD and spokesperson on Disability, Martin Daly has welcomed the launch of the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025–2030, expressing hope that it will be a transformative step for people living with disabilities across Ireland. 

The National Strategy was launched today by Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley. This Strategy marks a significant milestone in the advancement of disability rights in Ireland, as the first published since Ireland’s ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Speaking on the launch, Deputy Daly said, “One in five people in Ireland live with a disability, so whether we live with a disability ourselves or one of our loved ones does, this Strategy will touch all of our lives.  

“Everyone deserves the chance to live a full and meaningful life, and we need to ensure that no one faces unnecessary barriers to that. This Strategy is about building a society where inclusion, accessibility and dignity are at the heart of everything we do.” 

“I’m proud to see this Strategy launched. It lays out a clear and ambitious roadmap for change, and I’m hopeful that its impact will be felt not just in Government policy, but in the everyday lives of people across our community in the months and years ahead.” 

The National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025–2030 will guide delivery across five key areas that reflect the everyday challenges and priorities of disabled people: inclusive education, access to employment, independent living and active participation in society, health and wellbeing, and transport and mobility. 

The Strategy sets out clear commitments to improve access to education, employment, and independent living for disabled people. It includes the development of a Roadmap for Inclusive Education, tailored supports for students, and expanded employment programmes, including a doubling of Disability Employment Advisors in Intreo offices.

A new National Policy on Personal Assistance will support independent living, while children with complex needs will benefit from improved early intervention and reduced waiting times for therapy and assessments. 

It also tackles broader challenges such as the cost of disability, access to assistive technologies, and the need for more inclusive infrastructure and information. The Strategy commits to stronger engagement with disability stakeholders, better coordination of spending, and legislative reform to ensure Ireland’s laws reflect the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. 

“I want to sincerely thank the Taoiseach, Minister Norma Foley, and all those who played a role in shaping and delivering this strategy. It marks a vital step forward, and I’m eager to see its rollout, where it can begin making a real difference in people’s lives.

In Fianna Fáil, we are deeply committed to improving accessibility and inclusion for disabled people in every aspect of daily life. I look forward to working hard to turn these commitments into action, doing everything we can to ensure this strategy translates into meaningful, lasting change on the ground.”

ENDS