Tag Archives: Finian McGrath

THE Government decision to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) has been lauded as a watershed moment for all of Irish society. “Today marks a key moment, not only for people living with a disability, but also for their families, friends and support networks and for Irish society generally. Today the Government reaffirms its commitment to the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities by approving the process to initiate ratification of the Convention” commented Minister of State for Disability Issues, Finian McGrath. The purpose of the Convention is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity. “We will shortly bring a resolution to the Dáil that enables us to ratify the CRPD. This will be followed by the depositing of the instrument of amalgamation with the United Nations. …

Extra funding secured in the 2017 HSE National Service Plan for disabilities will be put to good use, according to Minister with responsibility for Disabilities, Finian McGrath. The Minister was speaking after the publication of the HSE National Service Plan for 2017, which will see an increased budget of almost €1 billion since last year, bringing the total health budget to over €14 billion. “I am very pleased that in 2017 the HSE will provide services in line with or in some cases, in excess of the target for services set out for 2016,” Minister McGrath said.“In addition, I welcome that extra funding secured for disability services will be put to good use in important areas.” Additional funding of €10 million is being allocated to meet the cost of providing day supports and services for approximately 1,500 young adults with disabilities who will complete their education or life-skills training in 2017. “I am also particularly pleased with the specific provision …