Disability groups welcome publication of Bill

Groups representing people with disabilities have largely welcomed today's publication of the Disability Bill.

However, they have said they will need time to fully examine the extensive range of measures proposed by the Government before commenting in detail.

The Government published legislation in December 2001 that was rejected by disability groups on the grounds that it did not contain guarantees of legally enforceable rights to services for the disabled.

The National Disability Authority (NDA) said today the legislation was a "significant element" in the National Disability Strategy. It particularly welcomed the provisions for redress contained in the Bill as these would save many families from having to resort to court action to secure services for children or other relations with disabilities.

Ms Angela Kerins, chair of the NDA, said: "From a late start and poor historical record, the NDA views the Bill as a vital element in an overall strategy aimed at creating a genuinely inclusive society open to all."

The People Disabilities in Ireland (PwDI) organisation gave what it called a "cautious welcome" to the Bill. But it warned that additional funding and A genuine effort to ensure that co-ordination across Government Departments becomes a reality.

The PwDI's chief executive, Mr Michael Ringrose said he was encouraged by the proposals for independent assessments of health and education needs.

"However, it would appear to be confined to these areas, and in that it is not as fulsome as we had hoped," he said. "We also welcome the introduction of a personal advocacy service and provision for legal redress. However, it would appear that CEOs of Health Boards can refuse services if they are of the opinion that resources are not available. This is a critical point underpinning the entire strategy."

The Forum of People with Disabilities in Ireland (Forum), the National Association for People with an Intellectual Disability Ireland, and the National Parents and Siblings Alliance welcomed the Bill but warned it was not yet clear how effective it will be in delivering on the rights and needs of disabled people.

They said they would be comparing the details of the Bill with the requirements set out in Equal Citizens, a report commissioned by the Government from the  Disability Legislation Consultation Group.

"On completion of our examination of the Bill we will outline our detailed commentary on it and, where necessary, we will table amendments to the Government and Oireachtas members," the director of Forum, Ms Mary Keogh said.

The Forum of People with Disabilities has launched a helpline for information on the Bill. The lo-call facility, on 1850-367867, will operate Mondays to Fridays, between 11.00 a.m and 3.00 p.m daily.

It is being supported by the state agency, Comhairle, and is being operated in conjunction with the National Association of Mental Handicap in Ireland.