Madam, - One wonders if it would be possible for the Government to deploy the same energy, enthusiasm and unflinching commitment in introducing the long awaited Disability Bill as it invested in the zealous campaign for a Yes vote in the referendum on citizenship.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to publishing a Disability Bill that includes provision for right of assessment, a proper appeals process and methods of enforcement.
A half-baked Disability Bill introduced in December 2001 caused outrage, given the absence of the most fundamental requirement - a rights-based approach which should have underpinned and safeguarded the rights of people with disabilities.
Last month the representative body Disability Legislation Consultation Group (DLCG) which shadows developments and monitors the proposed amendments to the Disability Bill, met Government officials again. The proposed changes and amendments were cosmetic. The notion of giving people with disabilities their rights "subject to resources" is tantamount to saying every citizen of the State can purchase a gleaming new Mercedes Benz - but only if they win the Lotto.
The revised Disability Bill is a classic case of the same old wine served up in a different bottle. No amount of repackaging will be accepted if the most basic and fundamental ingredient - a rights-based approach - is omitted. - Yours, etc.,
DONIE O'LEARY, PC,
Chairman,
Cork Network,
People with Disabilities
in Ireland,
Penrose Wharf,
Cork.