Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
19. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Social Protection the actions being taken to increase the low labour participation rate of 32% for persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2895/26]
View answerAt the outset, it is important to clarify for the Deputy that according to Census 2022, the employment rate for disabled people is actually 49% and not 32%.
My Department's Intreo service is a single point of contact for all employment supports in the State. Disabled people can make an appointment to meet with a Designated Disability Employment Personal Advisor to discuss employment and training options, including schemes such as Community Employment, Tús and Employability.
Since 2022, my Department began rolling out a proactive early engagement approach with young people aged between 18 and 22 years of age in receipt of Disability Allowance. This was followed by 22–25-year-olds and then all age groups.
Work and Access is a scheme that offers seven supports that addresses barriers to the workplace for disabled people and make it more accessible. Funding is available for communication supports, workplace adaptations as well as disability equality and inclusion training.
The Wage Subsidy Scheme supports employers to hire disabled people through a subsidy. Budget 2026 has provided for a further expansion in eligibility and an increase in the subsidy rates.
As a result of Budget 2026, people moving from Disability Allowance or Blind Pension to take up work will keep their Fuel Allowance for up to five years, from September 2026. The Back to Work Family Dividend is also being extended to people moving from Disability Allowance or Blind Pension who have children. In addition, people on Disability Allowance can earn up to €165 per week and keep their payment in full.
Under the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030, my Department, alongside the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment will lead the employment pillar. The Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation is also responsible for actions within the pillar. This pillar is focused on improving access to the workplace for all disabled people.
I trust this clarifies the issue for the Deputy.
