Inclusion Ireland's Parents’ Seminar took place on 3rd November 2007 in the Radisson Hotel, Athlone.

Máirín McCartney, solicitor & Michael Bach, Vice President Canadian Association for Community Living who spoke on Decision Making & Legal Capacity Seminar on Sat 3rd Nov 07 in Athlone. Teresa Blake BL (right) chaired the session.

This year’s Inclusion Ireland Seminar heard a debate on two current key issues: ‘Decision Making Capacity’ & ‘Long Stay Charges’

The morning session chaired by Teresa Blake started with a keynote presentation from Michael Bach Vice President Canadian Association for Community Living (CACL) who gave an overview of current international thinking on supported decision making as an alternative to substitute decision making or guardianship in the context of the UN Convention.

You can download Michael's paper here

Máirín McCartney followed with an informative overview of the Irish situation outlining the Mental Capacity & Guardianship Bill that was introduced to the Seanad in February 2007. Máirín outlined the different elements of the legislation and suggested amendments that will be required.

You can download Máirín's paper here

In the afternoon a robust debate on the Long Stay Health Charges was chaired by Mary O'Rourke, TD. A presentation was made from the HSE perspective by Seamus McNulty, HSE Asst National Director in PCCC with responsibility for Mental Health and Disabilities.

You can download Seamus' slides here

The view of Service Providers was outlined by Walter Freyne on behalf of the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies.

You can download Walter's presentation here

Kevin Doyle, Chairperson of the Inclusion Ireland Parents' Committee gave an account of how the charges are effecting his family. This was added to by many parents present who told stories of the charges' regulations causing confusion and upset amongst people who use services and their families.

A presentation was also given on the repayment of the illegal health charges by Pat Marron & Bernard Haddigan of the HSE Repayment Scheme.

You can click here to view Inclusion Ireland's information on the long stay charges