Shane Moynihan
Ceist:26. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection his plans to introduce a permanent annual cost of disability support payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15574/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 26 February 2026
Ceisteanna (26, 36, 53)
Louis O'Hara
Ceist:36. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Social Protection when he will introduce a cost of disability payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14631/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Ruairí Ó Murchú
Ceist:53. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Social Protection for an update on the work being done to provide a cost of disability payment in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15517/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 26, 36 and 53 together.
The Government recognises the significant additional costs that disabled people can face in their daily lives and is committed to improving outcomes for disabled people by introducing permanent measures. That is why the Programme for Government includes a number of commitments to improve the position of disabled people, including a commitment to introduce a Cost of Disability payment.
In addition, under the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030, which was developed with significant input from Disability groups and advocates, it was agreed to establish a Strategic Focus Network Summit on the Cost of Disability. While it is led by my Department, it includes other Government departments in this cross-government endeavour, as well as disabled people and their advocates. I will be hosting this Summit on 13 May.
On 20 February, I launched a public consultation process on how a cost of disability payment and the Strategic Focus Network Summit can best be delivered. It will run for just over 6 weeks closing on the 7th April. I want to all voices to be included in this consultation. I encourage any interested parties to visit gov.ie/COD, where they will find guidance on how to engage with the consultation in whatever format best suits them.
After the Summit we will produce a briefing paper outlining the key lessons and any tangible outcomes which will support how the whole of government delivers in this area. This will inform the next Programme Plan of Actions under the strategy.
I trust this clarifies the issue for the Deputy.