A public consultation is underway regarding the Cost of Disability in Ireland, launched by the Minister for Social Protection. The consultation seeks input on the best approach to a permanent, annual disability support payment, a commitment made in the Programme for Government.
Previous Reform Efforts
This latest effort follows a previous attempt at disability payment reform. In 2021, the Indecon report estimated that disabled people faced additional annual costs ranging from €8,700 to over €12,300. Following this report, a Green Paper was published by the former Minister Heather Humphreys proposing a three-tiered system of support.
However, the proposed restructuring faced significant opposition. Disabled people described the proposed system as “degrading,” citing its reliance on a medicalised assessment rather than a social model of disability. The Green Paper was scrapped in April 2024.
The current government has stated that disability is a priority issue. Minister Dara Calleary acknowledged the extra, unavoidable daily costs faced by many disabled people and described the current consultation as “hugely important” in ensuring their voices are central to the development of the payment.
What’s Next?
The public consultation will remain open until 7 April and is available on the Department of Social Protection website. The submissions received are expected to inform a Strategic Focus Network Summit in May. This summit will bring together Disabled Persons’ organisations, Ministers, senior Government officials, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders to discuss how best to address the cost of disability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the public consultation?
The public consultation is seeking submissions on what approach should be taken regarding a permanent disability support payment.
What were the issues with the previous Green Paper?
The proposed restructuring of disability payments in the Green Paper was described as “degrading” by disabled people, as it was based on a medicalised assessment rather than a social model of disability, and was subsequently scrapped.
Who will be involved in the Strategic Focus Network Summit?
The summit will bring together Disabled Persons’ organisations, Ministers, senior Government officials, civil society representatives and stakeholders.
How can we ensure that disability support payments truly address the financial challenges faced by disabled individuals and their families?
