Broad welcome for overall strategy

The sectoral plans have been broadly welcomed by representatives of people with disabilities but one group has called for legislation…

The sectoral plans have been broadly welcomed by representatives of people with disabilities but one group has called for legislation to deal with accountability of resources.

The director of the Forum of People with Disability, Donal Toolan, said that Minister for Finance Brian Cowen was advocating the need for greater accountability now that there were more resources.

"There should be much stronger legislation and accountability should be a pre-requisite for the plans," he said.

James McClean, the chairman of People with Disabilities in Ireland, welcomed the plans.

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The organisation believed that they were a major step forward for people with disabilities and he welcomed the opportunity to engage in thorough ongoing consultation, monitoring and evaluation of the plans, Mr McClean said.

"Indeed, the Taoiseach himself said today that structures for dialogue and consultation mean little unless they translate into real changes on the ground. He clearly recognises that consultation with people with disabilities must be a priority if these plans are to bear fruit," he added.

The Rehab Group, welcoming the plans, said that it was a landmark day for people with disabilities. However, in a statement, it added: "It is crucial now that the Government implements robust monitoring and evaluation structures that ensure full delivery of the commitments given."

The chairwoman of the National Disability Authority, Angela Kerrins, welcoming the plans and the code of practice, said: "This is a unique moment in the history of disability in Ireland, where for the first time we now have detailed commitments to action covering a broad range of areas such as public transport, accessible streets, health services, social welfare, job opportunities and broadcasting."