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Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Wednesday, 6th May

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
7:10pm: Topical Issues

Thursday, 7th May

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:50pm: Statements to mark Europe Day
4:10pm: Private Members’ Business (Labour Party): Motion re Cost of Living Mini-Budget

Seanad Éireann (Live Link)

Wednesday, 6th May

5pm: Statements on International Developments

Thursday, 7th May

1:30pm: Statements to mark Europe Day 2026

Committee Schedule

Wednesday, 6th May

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Sexual health services – availability and access to

10am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Freedom from exploitation, violence, and abuse for persons with disabilities — Speakers include representatives from the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission and the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights.

10:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Pre-Legislative Scrutiny on the General Scheme of the Social Welfare and Other Matters Bill 2026

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy — Building Climate Resilience – Flood Risk Adaptation

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Enterprise, Tourism and Employment — Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of a Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026

12:45pm: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — EU/Global Citizenship and Sustainable Development Education

Thursday, 7th May

9:30am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Safety and Well-being of Children Online

1pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community — Traveller Identity, with particular reference to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

📺 Catch Up

Joint Committee on Disability Matters — 29th April — Living arrangements for persons with disabilities: Video recording with ISL interpretation

Speakers include: representatives from representatives from the National Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities, Wexford County Council, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Inclusion Ireland, and Independent Living Movement Ireland.

Opening statements for speakers are available in PDF format on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

📝 Oireachtas Consultations

Public consultation on the Pre-legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Social Welfare and Other Matters Bill 2026

Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development

Submission Deadline: 07/05/2026

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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: Poster on a dark blue background with white text. Text reads: “Traveller Pride 2026. Save the Date. 28th May, 1pm–2pm, Athenry, Galway. Join us in celebrating Traveller Pride Week 2026 with a panel hosted by Emma Ward and Special Guests! Emma Ward. Shane McCarthy. Lee Anna Ward. Rose Marie Maughan. Martin Ward. Booking Essential. Register via Eventbrite. Disability Participation News Hub.” Logos for the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, FBD Insurance and Supermac’s are shown as sponsors/funders. A QR code is included for booking.]

🔔 Save the date

Join us in Athenry this May as we celebrate Traveller Pride Week 2026!

Our event will be hosted by disabled Irish Traveller, writer, freelance journalist and disability rights activist, Emma Ward, featuring a panel of special guests to chat about identity, culture, intersectionality and everything in between!

Date: 28th May
Time: 1pm-2:30pm
Venue: Athenry Community Hall, Cross St, Gorteenacra, Athenry, Co. Galway.

ISL interpretation available.

Refreshments generously provided by Supermacs

Spaces are limited for this event - booking is essential.

🔗Register via Eventbrite

This event is funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, and generously sponsored by Supermacs and FBD Insurance.

🌱 Would you like to sponsor this event?
Get in touch - info@disabilityparticipation.ie

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 28th April

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:30pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3:05pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
3:50pm: Government Business: Statements on the Consultation process of Our Rural Future Policy
6:15pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Strengthening Workers’ Rights

Wednesday, 29th April

10am: Private Members’ Business (Independent Technical Group): Motion re Family Law Transparency, Child Welfare, and Reform of the In Camera Rule
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
2:10pm: Mental Health Bill 2024 — Amendments from the Seanad

Thursday, 30th April

8:45am: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Social Protection
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
5:15pm: Private Members’ Bill or Committee Report (alternating weekly): Forty-first Amendment of the Constitution (Voting Rights in Presidential Elections) Bill 2025 — Second Stage

Seanad Éireann (Live Link)

Wednesday, 29th April

12:45pm: Government Business: Statements on Energy Security
5:30pm: Private Members’ Business: Motion re the Annual Progress Report and Government Response to Energy Price Pressures

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 28th April

11:30am: Joint Committee on Public Petitions and the Ombudsmen — Petition No. P00062/25 - Mandatory Mental Health Breaks in Schools

Wednesday, 29th April

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Living arrangements for persons with disabilities — Speakers include representatives from the National Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities, Wexford County Council, Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, Inclusion Ireland and Independent Living Movement Ireland.

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — The adequacy of radiation oncology capacity in the public hospital system and the need for investment in the renewal and expansion of infrastructure.

10:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Pre-Legislative Scrutiny on the General Scheme of the Social Welfare and Other Matters Bill 2026

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Enterprise, Tourism and Employment — Statutory Review Report, Part 3 of the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 (Right to request a remote working arrangement)

6:30pm: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Key Priorities for the Department of Education and Youth including Inclusive Education

7pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community — Traveller Accommodation

Thursday, 30th April

10am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Safety and Well-being of Children Online

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Drugs Use — Engagement with Academic Experts on Legislation, Policy and Practice II

📺 Catch Up

Joint Committee on Disability Matters — 22nd April — Living arrangements for persons with disabilities (ISL)

Speakers include: representatives from Remember Us, Before We Die, Home & Community Care Ireland and Respite & Services Kerry.

The Joint Committee on Disability Matters has published two new reports in recent weeks.

These include:

* Travel Report: Site Visit to Acquired Brain Injury’s Side by Side Clubhouse in Dún Laoghaire (PDF)

* Report on Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Disability (Amendment) Bill 2025 (PDF)

Find more details, along with recordings of recent sessions on the Committee’s dedicated webpage.

📝 Oireachtas Consultations

Public consultation on the adequacy and availability of sexual health services

Committee on Health

Submission Deadline: 30/04/2026

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💡 Our latest Spotlight Series Edition is out now!

In our latest Spotlight Series Edition we are chatting with disabled advocate, speaker, and Chair of the Mayo Disabled Persons Organisation and founder of Expanding Horizons, Avril Greham!

Our paid subscribers have early access to the edition here.

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: A graphic with a black background featuring the words “Spotlight Series” in colourful, cut-out magazine-style letters. Below, white text reads: “This week we are chatting with…Avril Greham.” An image of Avril sits beside this text surrounded by a gold frame. Avril sitting in a wheelchair, taking a close-up selfie. She is wearing a teal Mayo GAA jersey with white stripes on the shoulders. Her short hair is styled upwards, and they have a facial piercing below their lower lip. Behind Avril is a bed with a bright, multicoloured patterned duvet, adding a warm and vibrant feel to the room. Images beneath this text include a megaphone, an open book, flowers, a Mayo flag and a Disability Pride flag. The Disability Participation News Hub logo appears in the top right corner.]

💡 Spotlight Series: Avril Greham

We are on a mission to get to know and highlight Ireland’s activists, advocates and allies!

Each month, we will aim the spotlight on incredible changemakers working to advance the human rights of disabled people across Ireland.

We are delighted to share our latest Spotlight Series Edition, where we are chatting with disabled advocate, speaker, Chair of the Mayo Disabled Persons Organisation, and founder of Expanding Horizons, Avril Greham!

A reminder that you can listen to this edition through the Substack app, or by opening this edition on your browser.

Become a paid subscriber to have early access to our Spotlight Series each month by using the Subscribe button below.

Enjoy this edition and we will be in touch soon! ✨

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About Avril

Avril Greham (she/her) is a disabled advocate, speaker, and Chair of the Mayo Disabled Persons Organisation, based in Ballina. She’s spent nearly 20 years working in the public sector and brings both lived experience and straight-talking honesty to everything she does.

She’s the founder of Expanding Horizons, a disabled-led event that puts disabled voices front and centre through real conversations, not tokenism.

She’s also a proud Mayo woman, a loyal Mayo and Liverpool supporter, and someone who values community, good conversation, and saying things as they are.

Q. Hello Avril! Tell us a little about yourself and your work.

Avril: I’m Avril Greham. I’m a disabled person, a speaker, and an advocate based in Mayo.

A lot of what I do comes from lived experience. I’ve spent years navigating systems that weren’t built with disabled people in mind. That shapes how I show up in my work.

I’m the Chair of Mayo Disabled Persons Organisation, and I also run Expanding Horizons. That’s a live event platform where disabled people take centre stage, not as a tick box, but as experts. We’re talking real conversations, real stories, and sometimes uncomfortable truths about what inclusion actually looks like.

For me, it’s about shifting the narrative. Moving away from charity and into rights. Disabled people aren’t passive recipients. We’re decision-makers, contributors, and leaders in our own right.

Q. Do you have any advocacy priorities for the year ahead, what change are you hoping to see?

Avril: There’s a few things that feel urgent right now. First, disabled people need to be in the room where decisions are made. Not consulted as an afterthought, but involved from the start. That applies across policy, services, and public life.

The cost of disability is another big one. People are struggling. The conversation has been happening for years, but we need action now. That means a proper, non means-tested payment that reflects the real, everyday costs of living as a disabled person.

I’m also focused on pushing back against outdated thinking. The medical and charity models still show up in how services are designed and delivered. We need a stronger shift towards the social model, where the focus is on removing barriers, not fixing people.

And on a local level, it’s about building strong, disabled-led communities. Spaces where people feel heard, supported, and taken seriously

Q. What keeps you motivated in your advocacy?

Avril: It’s the people.

The messages, the conversations, the stories people trust you with. When someone says, “that’s exactly how I feel but I never had the words,” that sticks with you.

I also think back to my younger self. The moments of being left out, or made feel like a burden, without understanding why. If I can help shift that experience for even one person coming up behind me, then it’s worth it.

And honestly, I don’t think I could not do it at this stage.

Once you see the barriers clearly, you can’t unsee them. And once you realise that change is possible, even in small ways, you keep going.

Q. Anything you are looking forward to this year?

Avril: Expanding Horizons, without a doubt.

Happening on July 24th in Ballina, Mayo. Every year it grows a bit more, but what I’m really looking forward to is the room itself. We have some great speakers lined up this year. The energy, the conversations, the moments you can’t plan for. When people hear something that lands and you can feel the shift.

I’m also looking forward to building more through Mayo DPO. There’s something powerful about disabled people coming together, not just to talk, but to influence and shape what happens next.

Q. What’s your favourite way to unwind and look after your own wellbeing?

Avril: Music is a big one for me. Always has been.

If I need to regulate or switch off, I’ll stick on music and just sit with it. Lyrics especially. There’s something about finding your own thoughts in someone else’s words.

I also love going out for a good meal with good friends. Simple, but it does the job. Good food, a bit of laughter, and you come away feeling a bit lighter.

I also value quiet time more than I used to. Not every moment needs to be productive. Sometimes it’s just about stepping back and giving your head a bit of space.

Q. Anything people might be surprised to learn about you?

Avril: People might be surprised to know I’ve a real love for drama and storytelling.

I’ve been involved behind the scenes with the Ballina One Act Drama Festival for years, and I’ve also written my own pieces. A lot of it leans into humour, because sometimes that’s the best way to tell the truth.

There’s a freedom in storytelling that you don’t always get in everyday life.

Q. Any book recommendations for our online Book Club this year?

Avril: Born A Crime – Trevor Noah, Brutally Honest – Mel B, Weathering the Storm – Geraldine Lavelle.

Q. Do you have a favourite quote or saying that inspires you?

Avril: “Nothing about us without us.”

It’s simple, but it says everything. Disabled people should be part of the decisions that affect our lives. Not consulted after the fact. Not spoken for. Included from the start.

Q. Where can people find you if they’d like to follow your work?

Avril: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avrilgreham

Instagram: @avrilgreham & @expandinghorizonsie

Facebook: Expanding Horizons https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580477300308 & Avril Greham: https://www.facebook.com/byosh20

Website: www.avrilgreham.ie & www.expandinghorizons.ie

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Catch us back here next month with another Spotlight edition!

In the meantime…
📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

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Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 21st April

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:30pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3:05pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
5:25pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Special Education
7:30pm: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Health

Wednesday, 22nd April

10am: Private Members’ Business (Independent and Parties Technical Group): Motion re Earth Day
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
8:45pm: Health Information Bill 2024 — Amendments from the Seanad

Thursday, 23rd April

8:45am: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Education and Youth
10:25am: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Children, Disability and Equality
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
5:30pm: Private Members’ Bill: Education (Medical Emergencies in Schools) Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Seanad Éireann (Live Link)

Wednesday, 22nd April

4:30pm: Government Business: Statements on Disability Matters
6:15pm: Government Business: Statements on Homelessness (resumed)

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 21st April

3pm: Joint Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration — Engagement on ‘Tackling Gender-Based Violence’

3pm & 6pm: Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage — Housing Delivery Plans, the Expert Group on Traveller Accommodation and meeting the needs of the Traveller community

3:30pm: Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade — Situation in Afghanistan including human rights and the treatment of women and girls

Wednesday, 22nd April

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Living arrangements for persons with disabilities

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Vaccines – policies, availability and uptake

3:30pm: Joint Committee on European Union Affairs — Engagement on EU Presidency Planning: The Irish Coalition for Business and Human Rights

Thursday, 23rd April

10am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Safety and Well-being of Children Online

11am: Joint Committee on Artificial Intelligence — How Estonia has introduced AI in its education system

12:30pm: Select Committee on Health — Committee Stage Consideration: Health (Amendment) (Home Support Providers) Bill 2025

📝 Oireachtas Consultations

Public consultation on the adequacy and availability of sexual health services

Committee on Health

Submission Deadline: 30/04/2026

Subscribe now

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

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Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 14th April

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:30pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
7:25pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Fuel Prices

Wednesday, 15th April

10am: Private Members’ Business (Social Democrats): Motion re Tackling Soaring Energy Costs
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
2:15pm: International Protection Bill 2026 — Amendments from the Seanad

Thursday, 16th April

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation

Seanad Éireann (Live Link)

Tuesday, 14th April

5pm: Mental Health Bill 2024 — Report and Final Stages
7:15pm: Health Information Bill 2024 — Report and Final Stages

Wednesday, 15th April

5pm: Government Business: Statements on Homelessness

Thursday, 16th April

11:45am: Mental Health Bill 2024 — Report and Final Stages

Committee Schedule

Wednesday, 15th April

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Vaccines – policies, availability and uptake

9:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Further Scrutiny of EU legislative proposal: COM / 2025 / 0842 (strengthening of the framework for occupational retirement provision)

10:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Welfare Supports for the Self-Employed

7pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community — Traveller Accommodation

Thursday, 16th April

9:30am: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Education needs of Visually Impaired Students

9:45am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — State provided childcare places and early childcare matters

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Drugs Use — Engagement with Academic Experts on Legislation, Policy and Practice I

Catch up

Catch up on our most recent Oireachtas Access edition where we covered the Disability Matters Committee Report on Inclusive Education for Persons with Disabilities, including links to the report and a recording to watch back.

📰 Catch up here.

Subscribe now

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

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📢 Reminder: Consultation on Cost of Disability Deadline Approaching Soon

The Department of Social Protection has launched a consultation on the Cost of Disability.

They want to hear your views on two topics:

1. The agenda and format for a Cost of Disability Strategic Focus Network Summit.

This will be held on the 13 May 2026, and will be a one-day event where key people and groups meet to discuss the cost of disability and help shape future strategy.

2. Your views on a cost of disability payment and how it should be designed.

📝 Submission Information

The Department would particularly like to hear from disabled people, their families and carers, their representative groups, and Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs/DPROs).

Submissions can be made in the following formats:

* Written
* Video
* Irish Sign Language
* Phone (dedicated hours and phone number available)

⏰ Deadline for submissions: 7th April 2026 (5pm)

🔗 Find full details and submission requirements here

The National Platform of Self Advocates have created a great explainer and template to support people with making a submission.

Have a look here for more information.

More updates like these over on our website www.disabilityparticipation.ie

Subscribe now

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: A blue graphic decorated with outlines of Easter eggs. Two white rabbit ears pop up from the bottom of the image and white text reads: “Happy Easter”. The logo for the Disability Participation News Hub is in the bottom right hand corner.]

💥 Our latest edition is out now!

We’ll be taking a short break next week, so wishing you all a happy Easter.🐣

Enjoy this edition, which is packed with updates and should keep you ticking over with news until we return on the 15th April.

📰 https://mailchi.mp/disabilityparticipation/disability-participation-news-hub-newsletter-6753744

Support us by sharing this edition with a friend, group chat, colleague, or your team’s Slack!

Subscribe now

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

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Sligo Disabled Persons’ Organisation brings complaint about Sligo County Council to the Ombudsman

“Last week, the Sligo Disabled Persons’ Organisation (DPO) registered a complaint against the Sligo County Council with the Ombudsman.

The complaint concerns the consultation process for the Draft Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) Scheme.

DPO Secretary, Aisling Smith, who is also a member of the Public Participation Network (PPN) Secretariat explained, “SPCs are the main committees where the Council gets community feedback about plans and policies. Sligo DPO is part of the PPN Social Inclusion College so these social inclusion seats are how we have our voices heard on the plans and policies that affect us”

DPO Chairperson Ruth Flood said, “We made a reasonable request for a PPN social inclusion voice on every SPC. When this request was refused, we wrote to the council more than once to ask, ‘why?’ but they refused to answer that question. This took our members down a long process of back and forth with the Council, a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, a formal complaint to the Council, and ultimately an ombudsman complaint. This is a testament to the tenacity of Sligo DPO members in realising our rights but it’s absurd the lengths our members must go to get a simple answer to a simple question. Community voices should be listened to, and where not, we are entitled to understand the reason for it.

“Specifically, the FOI showed that there were 19 submissions to this consultation. The guidance for the Consultation said that the Corporate Policy Group (CPG) and the Council Executive was supposed to review the submissions and make any amendments. Instead, the Council Executive reviewed the submissions and made amendments alone. The first time the CPG and the councillors saw any of the submissions was one working day before they were asked to approve the new draft scheme. This is an exercise of executive dictatorship where decisions are rubber-stamped rather than the mindful consideration that the process guidance required.”

Sligo DPO public relations officer, Pippa Black referenced the United Nations Convention on the rights of disabled people saying, “We have the right to be consulted, through our representative organisations on matters that affect us. We took this to the Ombudsman because we have a right to participate in these decisions and to see our recommendations reflected in the outcome of decision-making processes. When that does not happen, we have a right to reasons. This was completely denied throughout this process

“These SPCs exist to support community involvement in Council policy-making. And yet, the way this consultation itself was carried out, the Council executive has demonstrated its disregard for meaningful public consultation as well as showing a level of disrespect for the volunteer time put into making these submissions in good faith. We hope the Ombudsman will hold the Council to a higher standard for consultation and remind them of their duty to uphold our UN Convention rights.”

Keep up to date with Sligo DPO’s work here.
You can contact Sligo DPO by emailing: sligodpo@gmail.com

Subscribe now

📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

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Dáil Recess

The Dáil is on their Easter break for the next fortnight, so a shorter update for you today and a break from us next week.

We have some updates from the Disability Matters Committee below to keep you ticking over for now. Expect us back on the 13th April with your next Oireachtas Access Edition.

Our usual newsletter will be out this Wednesday, so we will be back in your inboxes then!

Committee Report on Inclusive Education for Persons with Disabilities

The Joint Committee on Disability Matters met last Wednesday, 25th March, for the launch of their Report on Inclusive Education for Persons with Disabilities.

In an opening statement launching the report, Cathaoirleach Maurice Quinlivan noted that the Committee had undertaken the report while being conscious of Ireland’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), especially Article 24, which sets out the right to education.

“Many witnesses spoke of the dedication and commitment of teachers, SNAs, therapists and principals who consistently strive to meet the needs of children, often in the face of structural challenges. However, the evidence also demonstrates that Ireland now requires a more coherent, integrated and rights-based approach to inclusive education — one that is fully aligned with the UNCRPD and guided by the lived experience of disabled people”

The report covers the input from four public meetings and ten submissions on the topic, including those from Disabled Persons’ Organisations (DPOs). It aims to recognise the progress made and barriers that remain.

A comprehensive set of findings and thirty three recommendations have been made by the Committee. They have been grouped into thematic areas, in line with the UNCRPD and international best practice.

The thematic groups are listed below:

*Legislative and Strategic Reform
*Needs-Based Supports and Assessments
*Access to SLT, OT, Psychology, AAC and Behaviour Supports
*Communication Rights and Irish Sign Language (ISL)
*Inclusive Teaching and Curriculum, Reduced Timetables and Exclusion
*Early Years Inclusion and Transitions Interagency Coordination
*Data and Monitoring
*Governance and Funding
*Wellbeing, Family Support and Mental Health

📺 Catch up on the video of the launch here.
The video begins at the 11:25 minute mark and does not currently have Irish Sign Language Interpretation.

📝You can also find the report in PDF format here.

More information as always over on the Committee for Disability Matters Oireachtas webpage.

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[Image: A graphic with a black background featuring the words “Spotlight Series” in colourful, cut-out magazine-style letters. Below, white text reads: “This week we are chatting with…Emma Ward.” An image of Emma Ward sits beside this text surrounded by a gold frame. Images beneath this text include a megaphone, an open book, flowers, and a Disability Pride flag. The Disability Participation News Hub logo appears in the top right corner.]

💡 Spotlight Series: Emma Ward

We are on a mission to get to know and highlight Ireland’s activists, advocates and allies!

Each month, we will aim the spotlight on incredible changemakers working to advance the human rights of disabled people across Ireland.

We are delighted to share our first Spotlight edition with you featuring our very own, Emma Ward!

A reminder that you can listen to this edition through the Substack app, or by opening this edition on your browser.

Become a paid subscriber to have early access to our Spotlight Series each month by using the Subscribe button below.

Enjoy this edition and we will be in touch soon! ✨

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About Emma

Emma (she/her) is a disabled Irish Traveller, writer, freelance journalist and disability rights activist who is dedicated to breaking barriers and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Emma’s writing draws on intersectionality of identities and how this impacts types of discrimination. Her work centres on disability, intersectional identity, and social justice.

Learn more about Emma below and be sure to connect with her on socials or follow her work on Substack!

Q. Hello Emma! Tell us a little about yourself.

Emma: I am a disabled Irish Traveller from Galway. I am a disability rights activist, and a freelance journalist. Professionally I love writing, chatting to people and learning about their stories. I especially love it when I’m able to give those people a platform to share their voices and stories. I love being part of the movement of making Ireland better for the next generation of people with disabilities, personally I am a huge music and book lover! If you know me in person, you’ll know I’m never without a book (physical or on my kindle) or listening to a song no matter what.

Q. Is there anything you’re working on at the minute?

Emma: I am, I’m working on a project that I can’t speak about just yet but it’s an exciting opportunity. I’m also working on building my journalism portfolio by writing more articles about many different topics and people. I recently launched my new at home podcast called What’s Happening with Emma on Spotify and Patreon.

Q. Anything you are looking forward to this year?

Emma: I’m looking forward to a lot of things professionally and personally but the one thing that springs to my mind is the project I’m working on; I can’t wait until it’s announced. I’m also looking forward to the Disability Participation News Hub’s new book club!

Q. What keeps you motivated in your activism?

Emma: . I know this is a typical and cliche answer but my nephew Patrick is what keeps me motivated, he’s the reason I became an activist and as he gets older he reminds me to be motivated to make positive change for him and the younger generation of people with disabilities.

Q. What’s your favourite way to unwind and look after your own wellbeing?

Emma: Read a book or watch a movie! Reading is my favorite way of winding down, when you read your imagination literally transports you into a different world and makes you relax in a sense!

Q. Anything people might be surprised to learn about you?

Emma: When I was 8 years old I had halo traction treatment for scoliosis and got the halo removed from my skull being conscious (according to a nurse, I was the first child to do this but I don’t know if that’s really true or not).

When people first meet me I can be really shy! Once I get comfortable though I’m a chatterbox who you’d wish would shut up!

I don’t know if this is a fun fact but due to having a bone marrow transplant, I have two types of blood - Irish and Liverpool!

I’ve spoken at Electric Picnic with Amnesty Ireland!

Q. Any book recommendations for our online Book Club this year?

Emma: Never Know Your Place by Joanna Marsdan and Martin Naughton!

Mixed Up - Leon Diop!

Binding 13 - Chloe Walsh (my absolute favorite fiction book - I recommended it to everyone!)

Q. Do you have a favourite quote or saying that inspires you?

Emma: Nothing’s Impossible, even the word says I’m Possible

Q. Where can people find you if they’d like to follow your work?

Emma: You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Bluesky @emmawardjournalist and follow this link to my Substack and other updates on the work I do: https://linktr.ee/emmawardjournalist

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Catch us back here next month with another Spotlight edition!

In the meantime…
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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

[Image: A graphic with a black background featuring the words “Spotlight Series” in colourful, cut-out magazine-style letters. Below, white text reads: “Getting to know Ireland’s activists, advocates and allies.” Images beneath this text include a megaphone, an open book, flowers, and a Disability Pride flag. The Disability Participation News Hub logo appears in the bottom right corner.]

💡Coming Soon: Activist Spotlight Series

We are on a mission to get to know and highlight Ireland’s activists, advocates and allies!

Each month, we will aim the spotlight on incredible changemakers working to advance the human rights of disabled people across Ireland.

Our first “Spotlight” will be released this Friday to our paid subscribers on Substack, and then made available in our Wednesday newsletter for all next week.

You can become a paid subscriber by clicking the “Subscribe Now” button below.
Your support helps us keep the lights on as a small non profit powered by volunteers.

Make sure you are signed up to our weekly Wednesday newsletter for more advocacy updates and news.

We’ll be in touch soon! ✨

Subscribe now

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☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

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📢 Our latest edition is out now!

This edition includes updates on consultations, CRPD elections, ongoings in the Oireachtas, and much more!

We also have a little reminder about our online Book Club, which kicks off next month 📚

Next week, we’ll be launching an exciting new monthly series…keep an eye on our website and socials for more!

📰 Catch up on our latest edition here

More over on www.disabilityparticipation.ie 🔗

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📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

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Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 24th March

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:30pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
7:20pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Cancer Services

Wednesday, 25th March

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
6:45pm: Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) (Amendment) Bill 2026 — Report and Final Stages

Thursday, 26th March

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:50pm: Statements on the Bessborough Development
5:15pm: Private Members’ Bill: Organisation of Working Time (Leave for Health Screening Purposes) Bill 2025 — Second Stage

Seanad Éireann (Live Link)

Wednesday, 25th March

1pm: International Protection Bill 2026 — Report and Final Stages

Thursday, 26th March

11:45am: Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) (Amendment) Bill 2026 — All Stages
and
Motion re the earlier signature of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) (Amendment) Bill 2026

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 24th March

11am: Joint Committee on Artificial Intelligence — Justice and Law Enforcement (ii)

3pm: Joint Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration — Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of a General Scheme: Civil Reform Bill 2025

6pm: Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage — Housing Crisis in the Gaeltachta

Wednesday, 25th March

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Issues related to the completion of the National Children’s Hospital and preparations for bringing it into use

10:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Report Launch - Inclusive Education for Persons with Disabilities

12:45pm: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Education needs of Visually Impaired Students

Thursday, 26th March

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Drugs Use — Engagement on Civil society perspectives on legislation, policy and practice

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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

[Image: a rectangular graphic with a pink and yellow faded background. Text reads: “Latest edition out now! Consultations, UNCRPD Updates, News Round Up, Calls for Participation, Oireachtas Access, DPO News, News Hub Book Club! www.disabilityparticipation.ie. An illustration of a megaphone is in the bottom left hand corner and the Disability Participation News Hub logo is in the top left hand corner.]

📬 Our latest edition is out now!

Catch up on Consultations, Oireachtas Updates, DPO News and much more.

We’ve also launched out News Hub Book Club! 📚✨

🔗 Find this week’s edition here.

Subscribe now

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

[Image: a rectangular graphic with a pink and yellow faded background and white stars scattered around the image. Text reads: “News Hub Book Club”. An illustration of a row of books with flowers and plants growing from them is at the centre of the graphic. The logos for the West Midlands Credit Union and Disability Participation News Hub are at the bottom of the image.]

News Hub Book Club 2026

Our News Hub Book Club aims to create an online space to celebrate and connect with disabled writers, poets, academics and creatives each month.

Join from the comfort of your own home and expect everything from sci-fi to poetry and academic articles!

Open to disabled people and allies - all welcome ✨

We are delighted and grateful to be supported by the West Midlands Credit Union for this project.

If you would like to support us to ensure essential access costs such as ISL interpretation, book bundles and more, please reach out to our team to make a donation or become a sponsor at info@disabilityparticipation.ie ❤️

[Image: a rectangular graphic with a pink and yellow faded background and white stars scattered around the image. Text reads: “News Hub Book Club. Featuring Liadh Moloney. Date: Saturday, 25th April. Time: 7pm. Venue: Zoom. ISL Interpretation. Register via Eventbrite”. An illustration of a row of books with flowers and plants growing from them is along the bottom of the images along with the logos for the West Midlands Credit Union and Disability Participation News Hub.]

Join Session #1 of the News Hub Book Club, featuring Liadh Moloney!

Join us from the comfort of your own home for our first News Hub Book Club Session with poet and alt-pop singer, Liadh Moloney!

Our News Hub Book Club is a celebration of disabled and neurodivergent authors, writers, poets and creators.

Disabled people and allies are all welcome to join us for these relaxed online sessions.

Come along to hear from Liadh about her work and writing, connect with others and share your thoughts.

Our read this month: “Control” by Liadh Moloney

“’Control’ is an alt-pop track with elements of synth and disco, about my struggle to control my own mind and search for oblivion. At this time of my life, I was repressing a lot of my emotions and coping in unhealthy ways. In this way, my search for control ended up controlling me.

But ‘Control’ is also a mantra - a way to ground myself. I’d love for this song to help others escape their minds and feel present in their bodies, even if for a moment.”

Find the poem/text version of control, along with the audio version on Leah’s bandcamp page here.

Control - Youtube Link

Find Leah’s music, including “Control” on Spotify.

About Liadh

Liadh (Lee-ah) is a poet and alt-pop singer from Athlone. With a background in psychology and a fascination for the human mind and behaviour, Liadh writes about topics including sobriety, illness, mental health and neurodiversity. She is gearing up for the release of her debut EP Illusions, a project which explores the deceptions, distortions and myths of the mind.

Liadh was a recipient of the 2024 Brinsley McNamara Bursary from Westmeath County Council. Fluent in Irish and French, she has already broken into the French music scene - last summer, she performed a number of gigs in France and toured England with French arts organisation ‘Bodies of Work Paris’. Her singles have received nationwide airplay including from Spin 103.8, Cork’s 96FM, Today FM, iRadio, Shannonside and Midlands 103. Liadh is known for her powerful and theatrical stage presence, reminiscent of Kate Bush and Marina (and the Diamonds).

Her poem ‘A curse written with invisible ink’, about her experience seeking help for endometriosis, was recently published in ‘SEEN: A poetry anthology about hidden disabilities and conditions’, edited by Michael Isaacs.

Book Club Details

Date: Saturday, 25th April
Time: 7pm -8pm
Venue: via Zoom
Cost: Free
Registration: Register through our Eventbrite page or email info@disabilityparticipation.ie.

Access Information

*ISL interpretation available
*Closed Captions available via Zoom
*Cameras optional
*No one will be asked to read aloud or speak during the session
*Chat function will be turned off , Q&A function will be available, dedicated team member and mentimeter link available to share thoughts.

Please reach out to our team at info@disabilityparticipation.ie for any access needs we can support with.

Note:
*Please also note that this is an LGBTQIA+ affirming, anti-racist and neuroaffirming space.
*Spaces for this event are capped to allow for engagement and facilitation of the sessions - make sure you book your space!

We are grateful to West Midlands Credit Union for their support on this series.

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Dáil Éireann (live link)

Wednesday, 18th March

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3:10pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
3:30pm: Statements on International Women’s Day
5:50pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Energy and Fuel Costs

Thursday, 19th March

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
5:30pm: Private Members’ Business (Independent Technical Group): Motion re Structural Reform of Child Welfare Governance

Seanad Éireann (Live Link)

Wednesday, 18th March

3:45pm: International Protection Bill 2026 — Committee Stage

Thursday, 19th March

12:15pm: International Protection Bill 2026 — Committee Stage (resumed)

Committee Schedule

Wednesday, 18th March

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Pre-legislative scrutiny of a general scheme: Pre-Legislative Scrutiny - Assessment of Need (Part 1)

10:45am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Pre-legislative scrutiny of a general scheme: Pre-Legislative Scrutiny - Assessment of Need (Part 2)

10:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Access to health services and treatments for allergies

Thursday, 19th March

9:30am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — State provided childcare places and early childcare matters

9:45am: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — The Provision of Special Education

12:30pm: Select Committee on Disability Matters — Committee Stage Consideration: Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) (Amendment) Bill 2026

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Drugs Use — Engagement on Civil society perspectives on legislation, policy and practice

Subscribe now

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☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

[Image: A graphic with a dark blue background with the logo for the Disability Participation News Hub in the top left hand corner. An illustration of a megaphone is in the bottom left hand corner of the graphic. Text reads: “Latest edition out now! Consultations. DPO News. Calls for Participation, Oireachtas Access. UNCRPD Updates. News Round Up.”]

💥 We’re back!

After a week off, we are back with a jam-packed edition and catching you up on news, events and activism updates taking place across Ireland.

A special thanks to all who have kept us in the loop and sent in news for this edition as we settle back in - always a group effort!

📰 Catch up here: https://mailchi.mp/disabilityparticipation/disability-participation-news-hub-newsletter-6753357

Sign up to have it delivered to you every week 📬https://mailchi.mp/3ce7ca8f3fc3/disability-participation-news-hub

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📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
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☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

[Image: Blue and pink graphic titled “CEDAW Update”. Text reads: “Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). Call for comments – Draft general recommendation on gender stereotypes. Deadline: 6th May 2026.” UN logo in the centre, megaphone illustration on the left, Disability Participation News Hub logo and website (www.disabilityparticipation.ie) at the bottom]

CEDAW Update

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) want to hear from you as they create a draft general recommendation on gender stereotypes.

Deadline to make a submission: 6th April 2026

More details on submission requirements here.

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The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.

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The Oireachtas schedules are clear this week, but we have got a few bits for you to catch up on in the meantime.

Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Disability (Amendment) Bill 2025.

The Committee on Disability Matters held three sessions over two days last week on Pre-Legislative Scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Disability (Amendment) Bill 2025.

Session #1, held on the 3rd March, heard from representatives from Disabled Persons’ Organisations Disabled Women Ireland and AsIAm on the General Scheme of the Disability (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Assessment of Need structure and process.

Find the opening statement by Disabled Women Ireland here in (PDF) format.
Find the opening statement by AsIAm here in PDF format.

Session #2, held on the same day, heard from representatives from Disability Federation Ireland, St. Gabriel’s Foundation and Enable Ireland on the same topic.

Find the opening statement by Disability Federation Ireland here in PDF format.
Find the opening statement by Enable Ireland here in PDF format.

Both sessions are available through the same recording link here - no ISL version available at this date.

Session #3 was held on the 4th March, with representatives from the Ombudsman for Children’s Office, The Psychological Society of Ireland and the Centre for Disability Law and Policy of the University of Galway.

Find the opening statement from the Centre for Disability Law and Policy of the University of Galway in PDF format.

Find the opening statement from The Psychological Society of Ireland in PDF format here.

Find the opening statement from the Ombudsman for Children’s Office in PDF format here.

Find the recording of Session #3 through this link - no ISL version available at this date.

Provision of Special Education and the Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Allocation Review

The Committee on Education and Youth, which shadows the Department of Education and Youth, also met last week on the Provision of Special Education and the Special Needs Assistant (SNA) Allocation Review.

The Committee heard from representatives from the Department of Education and Youth and National Council for Special Education.

Find the opening statement from the CEO of the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) in PDF format here.

Find the opening statement from the Principal Officer of Special Education in the Department of Education and Youth in PDF format.

You can find the recording of this session here - no ISL version available at this date.

Bills for Discussion

And finally, some Bills that continued through the Oireachtas last week included:

Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) (Amendment) Bill 2026
International Protection Bill 2026
Health Information Bill 2024

As always, we will have more news on consultations and advocacy in our newsletter this week - make sure you are signed up to receive it directly to your inbox!

Subscribe now

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📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
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🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a not for profit organisation.