January 2011

President McAleese launches

Inclusion Ireland 50th Anniversary

President Mary McAleese launched Inclusion Ireland’s 50th Year Celebrations this morning (Thursday 20th January) in the National Library. Formerly NAMHI, Inclusion Ireland is the largest rights based organisation in Ireland representing people with an intellectual disability and their families. A series of events are planned to mark Inclusion Ireland’s 50th Anniversary. 

Self – Advocate* Stephen McDermott spoke at the launch saying:

“People with intellectual disabilities have fought very hard for their rights over the last 50 years. Inclusion Ireland has supported us to do this...In 1961 when Inclusion Ireland started, people with intellectual disabilities were pushed into institutions. 50 years later, are growing number are living independently. Inclusion Ireland’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations will end in December. But our fight for inclusion will continue long after that.”

Inclusion Ireland Chairperson Frieda Finlay said:

“It was the pioneering spirit of the founding members in 1961 that saw the need for change and set up NAMHI. 50 years on that spirit remains, and Inclusion Ireland is determined not to rest easy until rights, independence, dignity and equality is achieved for people with intellectual disabilities.  

Pictures available on request. 

*A Self-Advocate is someone who speaks up for their rights