Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
75. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if the First Programme Plan of Action to deliver the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030 will make meaningful changes to the lives of people with a disability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [72862/25]
View answerI thank the Deputy for this question. I am delighted to say that the First Programme Plan of Action to deliver the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030 was published by Government on 8th December 2025.
The First Programme Plan commits Government to the delivery of a range of priority measures throughout 2026 that will have very real and positive impacts on the daily lives of disabled people. Taken together, the commitments contained within the First Programme Plan demonstrate Government's determination to implement a range of ambitious and impactful measures that will make a real difference to advancing the rights of disabled people within our country.
The whole of government approach set out in both the Strategy and the First Programme Plan of Action will ensure strong delivery on the changes required across:
• Inclusive learning and education
• Employment
• Independent Living and Active Participation in Society
• Wellbeing and Health
• Transport and Mobility
Work on priority measures that has already commenced, include the establishment of a Working Group on Irish Sign Language. In 2026, this Group will examine ways to increase the supply of Irish Sign Language interpreters.
Work on establishing a Strategic Focus Network on the Cost of Disability, led by the Department of Social Protection, has also commenced with initial meetings having taken place with disability groups.
