Sir, - I refer to the case of Mrs Sinnott and Jamie, for whom I have great sympathy and admiration. My purpose in writing this letter is to point out that there is urgent need for special legislation to look after the welfare of disabled, especially severely disabled people, whatever form of disability they may have.
I speak from my 30 years' experience as a consultant clinical director in the psychiatric services.
In times of plenty disabled persons have been given a smaller share of resources than most, and in times of hardship, as during the cutbacks of the 1980s, they were easy targets for reductions of services. This was openly acknowledged by some administrators, some sadly, some cynically.
Most severely disabled people are unable to create spheres of influence in the political and economic processes of society. Consequently, they tend to be disregarded, and this is the reason special legislation is needed so they can get their fair share of resources.
The legislation should firstly include a right to initial and ongoing assessment to identify their changing needs.
Secondly, it should ensure that there is a duty on all structures of both national and local government to see that these needs are met in a reasonable fashion.
Thirdly, it should establish an administrative structure independent of Government Departments or local authorities which would have a duty to seek out all seriously disabled people and ensure they were assessed on an ongoing basis, and that their needs were met.
This body should also be responsible for supervising and holding to account all professionals, care workers, administrators, and anybody else involved in care.
The main objection to such legislation is that it would cost much money, and that the country cannot afford it. I can not accept this as my suggestions would ensure value for money and decrease waste, and as the money would be well spent as it would make the lives of large numbers - the disabled, their families and friends - happier, by affording security and prospect of dignified lives.
I urge all associations for disabled people, our TDs and the public to insist on its enactment and I am prepared to help all interested. - Yours, etc.,
David Dunne, Glanmire, Cork.