Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 June 2025
101. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection for an update on plans to introduce a permanent annual cost of disability support payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32996/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to introducing a permanent annual Cost of Disability Support Payment with a view to incrementally increasing this payment.Developments in this area will build on progress made in recent years where steps have been taken in recognition of the additional costs associated with having a disability. Over the last four budgets, the Government has progressively improved payment rates and income disregards for disabled people.However, we know that addressing the cost of disability is not a question of income support alone. The delivery of and access to services are also key. The Indecon report on the cost of disability, commissioned and funded by my Department, found that the extra costs of disability are due to a number of factors including higher costs of healthcare, transport, education and other services that arise because of a higher level of dependence on these services by people with disabilities.The Government has prioritised the development of a new National Disability Strategy. This is a whole of government strategy, led by my colleague the Minister for Children, Equality and Youth, with involvement of all Ministers. It's focus is on improving access to services and reducing these extra costs.Further highlighting the cross-departmental nature of these issues and the need for a coordinated approach, the Taoiseach has set up a Disability Programme Office in his own Department. He has also established a dedicated Cabinet Committee on disability with a view to driving and monitoring progress in this area.Our Programme for Government commitments will be advanced over the lifetime of the Government in the context of overall policy and budget demands.
