Minister promises new Disability Bill ‘before year’s end’

Deputy wants date of ratification of UN Convention.

Deputy wants date of ratification of UN Convention.

CORK South West Fianna Fáil Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony has sought a specific date from the Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald for the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities.

‘The Tánaiste must excuse my cynicism, because exactly this time last year I asked for a date and we were told it would be before the end of the year,’ she said. ‘The Taoiseach has stated the Government is using a different approach to other European countries, and this is certainly true because I find its approach very hands-off and I would like a more specific date, please.’

In reply, the Tánaiste said the Departments of Health along with Justice and Equality are working together on finalising the amendments for the Bill, particularly on the issue of deprivation of liberty, which is a very complex issue.

‘We intend to sign the Convention by the end of this year and bring the relevant legislation to the House before then,’ she said.

‘The point the Taoiseach was making is that some countries signed before they did all of the work or developed the services for those with a disability. We have taken the approach that we want to make sure everything is in place before we sign it. 

‘That is actually a more constructive approach. It means better services for people with disabilities,’ the Tanaiste said.