The National Disability Authority is calling for improved quality in services for people with disabilities, greater accessibility to public services and a national survey of needs of the disabled in its two-year strategic plan published yesterday.
The plan, for 2004 to 2006, sets targets for improving conditions for the estimated 360,000 people with disabilities in the State.
The chairwoman of the NDA, Ms Angela Kerins, said the authority laid "considerable groundwork" in its first three years but was mindful of the "significant challenges" ahead.
The authority had "engendered" a culture of participation, consultation and empowerment, setting the issues clearly in a human rights context, she said.
"The agenda and challenge for the next three years is to build on that work, and the work of all those in the disability sector, to continue to effect real change in the lives of people with disabilities, their families and carers, in Ireland," she added.
Ms Kerins said the NDA would aim to effect change in the key policy areas of health, education, transport, poverty, employment and training, as well as challenging attitudes on disability issues.
The Disabilities Bill, which is due to be published by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, was "eagerly awaited".
An earlier version was withdrawn two years ago after criticism by disability groups.
According to the plan, services for the disabled in parts of the State are "patchy" or do not exist.
"Coupled with administrative inconsistencies and financial constraints, there is some way to go before consistent, high-quality services are provided across Ireland."
The economic downturn and resulting cutbacks is putting "significant pressure" on disability services.
The authority says it will be "observant" of any changes brought about by these trends, on areas of importance to people with disabilities.
The plan, which was drawn up after consultation with people with disabilities, parents and carers, sets out a number of priorities for the next three years.
These include the promotion of equal status for people with disabilities, maximising accessibility to services, and informing and challenging attitudes in society.
The plan has been submitted to, and approved by, the Minister for Justice, as required under the National Disability Authority Act, 1999.
The Authority also published its annual reports for 2001 and 2002 yesterday, together with audited accounts.
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