The National Disability Authority has called for the urgent introduction of the Disabilities Bill, which it says has been "long awaited" and is vital in terms of economic and social supports.
The authority travelled to Galway last week to hold one of a series of briefings throughout the regions on its strategic plan for 2001 to 2003. It has three priorities: the development of policies to promote the equal status of people with disabilities; the influence of attitudes in Irish society; and the assurance of best practice in services for the disabled.
The association's director, Ms Claire O'Connor, drew attention to the results of a recent survey which found that the attitudes of the general public were more progressive than those of the State. In the west, the major difficulty is in staffing for services. "Trying to attract therapists to live over here is always a challenge," Ms Angela Cairns said.
"Access to appropriate services and assessment of need by the State are particularly acute challenges." Ms O'Connor urged the Government to bring the Bill before the Dβil before Christmas.