GOVERNMENT CAN RECOGNIZE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS THROUGH BUDGET 2008 – INCLUSION IRELAND

Inclusion Ireland, the National Association for People with an Intellectual Disability, is calling on the Irish Government to mark today’s celebration of International Day of Disabled Persons, by ensuring that Inclusion Ireland’s priority issues for Budget 2008 are met. Inclusion Ireland CEO Deirdre Carroll says that while we are being constantly told that our finances are not healthy, Inclusion Ireland’s priority issues for Budget 2008 are “imperative if we are to work towards inclusion and equality for people with an intellectual disability”.

“International Day of Disabled Persons actively supports the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of society and affirms the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The integration of people with an intellectual disability into Irish society is a goal we are working towards. But in order to achieve this, Inclusion Ireland’s Budget priorities must be met. This will put us on the road towards greater equality and understanding.   

“It must also be remembered that at a time when our belts are tightening, some of Inclusion Ireland’s provisions will save the Irish taxpayer money. For example, the introduction of a non-means tested payment for all full-time carers. This provision makes good economic sense. The cost of a full, non-means tested carer’s allowance, so a person can staying living with their family, is €11,000 per annum. The cost of residential care is a minimum of €70,000 per annum. In monetary terms there is no comparison, and the benefit of staying in the family home is immeasurable.

“The Tánaiste must recognize the importance of today as International Day of Disabled Persons, and ensure that provisions are put in place so as we can continue to work towards greater equality and inclusion.”

Inclusion Ireland’s Priority Issues for Budget 2008 are:

• Review Funding Arrangements for People with an Intellectual Disability & Promote Innovative Measures for Providing Supported Living and Respite Services
• End Waiting Lists for Services
• Complete Transfer of People with an Intellectual Disability from Psychiatric Hospitals to the Community
• Introduce National Standards for Disability Services
• Further Relax Means Test for Carer’s Allowance & Create more Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities

ENDS

RETURN TO MAIN NEWS PAGE