Ministers leave disability group in the cold at protest

A Cork disability rights advocate has expressed her deep disappointment that no Government minister came to meet a recent demonstration at Dáil Éireann.

Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) coordinator for Cork, Margaret O'Connor, travelled to Dáil Éireann last week as part of a disability coalition to hold a public demonstration demanding urgent action for disabled people facing rising costs and reduced supports.

Members of IWA, the Disability Federation of Ireland, and Access for All attended the demonstration in response to the omission of a permanent Cost of Disability Payment for people with disabilities in Ireland in Budget 2026, as well as the removal of existing supports.

Ms O'Connor said: “Despite the national weather warnings last week, a large number of people travelled into Dublin city to Leinster House to show their anger and concern about the rising costs for people with disabilities.

“Our members were disappointed that none of the Government ministers came out to meet with them and listen to their concerns.”

However, the coalition did receive support from TDs around the country, with members from both the People Before Profit and the Social Democrats parties raising the need for an emergency winter payment for people with disabilities in the Dáil on the day.

Ms O’Connor continued: “It is important to keep supporting the voices of people with disabilities so they can be heard. We know the Government has committed to a Cost of Disability payment in the future but when will that be?

“Our members are in trouble this week and every week. They shouldn't have to wait without any deadline in sight.”

In September, the Irish Government launched the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030.

A spokesperson for the Department of Children, Disability and Equality said: “This is a whole-of-government framework co-designed with disabled people and their representative organisations to support collaboration across government departments and agencies on the key issues that impact disabled people.

“Key initiatives under the strategy include those to address the cost of disability on a whole-of-government basis, including the often-significant barriers faced by disabled people in accessing vital services, leading to increased costs.

“The strategy will also address the barriers faced by disabled people in accessing employment and advancing in their careers.”

IWA has pledged to continue its campaign calling for immediate action for disabled people facing rising costs and reduced supports.

To learn more and to support the campaign, visit iwa.ie/post-budget-2026.