Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
65. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of people in Dublin that are currently in receipt of disability allowance; if they will benefit from the planned new cost of disability payment; the work he is undertaking with regard to that proposed new payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14954/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government recognises the significant additional costs that disabled people all around the country can face in their daily lives and is committed to improving outcomes for disabled people by introducing permanent measures.
Disability Allowance is my Department's main income support payment for disabled people. There are currently 41,161 recipients of Disability Allowance in Dublin.
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.
