A total of €6 million in grants has been awarded to organisations that assist people with disabilities to live independently.
Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform Frank Fahey announced the awards to 64 voluntary and not-for-profit organisations today under the Independent Living Support Programme.
The grants will be used to purchase equipment which will assist the organisations in enabling people with disabilities to live in their own homes.
"This Government is committed to improving and making a practical difference to the lives of people with disabilities, to promoting their integration into society, to changing attitudes and to combating the discrimination and poverty they experience," Mr Fahey said.
Angela Kerins, Chairperson of the National Disability Authority told ireland.comthat the announcement was welcome: "This is a very worthwhile initiative by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform which will make a real difference in the everyday lives of people with disabilities.
"Independence is a very important aspiration for most people and the grants provided today will ensure the provision of practical equipment, assistive devices and transport supports which will enable people with disabilities to live independently, work and to get about generally."