Opportunities Hub - About

The Opportunities Hub advertises employment opportunities related to rights, access and participation across Ireland.

Interested in advertising a role?
Contact our team at info@disabilityparticipation.ie to request a quote or learn more about our advertising packages.

Please note that acceptance of an advertisement does not constitute endorsement by the Disability Participation News Hub of the advertising organisation, its services or its activities.

To learn more about this featured role, please contact the advertising organisation through the contact details provided in the advertisement below.

Disability Federation of Ireland - Advocacy Engagement Coordinator – Disabled Persons Coalition

Job Description

Position: Advocacy Engagement Coordinator – Disabled Persons Coalition (Part time role, 3 days per week)

Tenure: 2-year fixed term contract

Organisation: Disability Federation Ireland (DFI)

Location: The role is based in the main office of DFI in Dublin City Centre. It is a hybrid working role, with a blend of in-person and remote working.

DFI can accommodate flexible working hours; the successful candidate must be available to work out of normal working hours to facilitate evening meetings.
The position may entail occasional travel

Reporting to: Emer Begley, Director of Advocacy

Salary: €29,216 for 3 days per week.

Find the full job description in PDF format here.

Overview of DFI

Our mission as a federation is to work with our members, disabled people, allies, and the state to drive full inclusion and equity.

Our vision is an Ireland where disabled people shape their own lives and take part in their community with equality, inclusion and independence.

Our five values guide how we work: Respect, Inclusion, Fairness, Empowerment, and Collaboration

More information about DFI can be found at www.disability-federation.ie

DFI is an Equal Opportunities Employer

Role Purpose

We are seeking a suitably qualified person to fill this exciting new role of Advocacy and Engagement Coordinator. The role will focus on the coordination of the Disabled Persons’ Coalition, which is a new programme, in line with our new Strategic Plan.

The aim of the Coalition is to provide and coordinate a platform to identify, inform, and drive issues of relevance to disabled people. The coalition will include a diverse group of disabled people who identify and campaign on issues relating to disability equality and rights.

The Coalition will be facilitated by DFI, providing secretariat support, facilitation, and other tasks to enable its successful running.

To commence this critical work, we are seeking a motivated person to coordinate and support the work of the Coalition. The coordinator will work with the Coalition on developing an annual workplan and supporting delivery of the plan throughout the year.

The Coalition is self-directed while connected into DFI governance structures. It will operate with a strong working relationship with DFI and in partnership with DFI’s advocacy programmes. It will work closely with DFI programmes across policy, communications and membership. In addition, the Coalition will build strong working relationships with a wide range of external stakeholders.

Context for the New Role

The role is being filled in conjunction with DFI’s Strategic Plan. It will support implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; specifically in line with Article 29 - to promote actively an environment in which persons with disabilities can effectively and fully participate in the conduct of public affairs, without discrimination and on an equal basis with others, and encourage their participation in public affairs.

The context for the role is also guided by Article 4 ‘General Observations’ of the UN CRPD. In particular Article 4.3 where it states, “in the development and implementation of legislation and policies to implement the present Convention, and in other decision-making processes concerning issues relating to persons with disabilities, States Parties shall closely consult with and actively involve persons with disabilities, including children with disabilities, through their representative organizations.”

The role will also support commitments in the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People under Pillar 3, Commitment 9 – Participation in Public and Political Life “to enable disabled people to have meaningful engagement in political life and public fora and to actively engage in elections on an equitable basis as citizens”.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The core responsibilities of this role are to:

• work initially with a group of disabled people to co-design the structure and function of the Coalition, including development of its Terms of Reference.

• play a key role in establishing the Coalition, and determining the format and processes connected to it.

• work collaboratively with Coalition members to develop annual work plans, agree advocacy goals, and review their progress throughout the year.

• provide inclusive secretariat support for the Coalition, including organising meetings, induction of new members, preparing documentation and other materials as required; support the preparation of accessible documentation and materials.

• facilitate the effective operation of the Coalition by fostering a positive, inclusive and collaborative working environment for members.

• build and manage relationships with external stakeholders to build trust in the Coalition as an effective and informative group to influence disability policy.

• undertake advocacy activities to promote the Coalition’s priorities.

• work closely with DFI colleagues to ensure partnership based relationships.

• collate and present relevant information on the policy and rights landscape (as relevant to the Coalition advocacy priorities) ensuring members are informed on emerging opportunities and ongoing issues.

• support the ongoing development of meaningful lived experience engagement and participation across DFI.

• identify opportunities for the Coalition and provide support to Coalition members in related activities.

• support Coalition members to enhance their political participation in line with the UN CRPD.

This job description is intended as a summary of the core responsibilities of the role. It is not inclusive of all duties as relevant to the role.

Role requirements and criteria:

Candidates must have:

• a minimum of three years’ experience working in a relevant field, promoting and progressing a rights agenda.

• a relevant degree, or relevant lived experience or professional experience in a related field.

• a strong understanding of disability rights, the social model of disability and the barriers faced by disabled people.

• experience of working collaboratively, with diverse groups and individuals.

• experience in facilitating groups.

• experience in building relationships.

• experience of coordinating events and projects.

• excellent organisational and administrative skills.

• strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• experience of working on multiple tasks/projects at the same time.

• experience of working as part of a virtual team.

• a willingness to work flexible hours.

How to Apply

A cover letter and CV should be sent to jobs@disability-federation.ie

The closing date for applications is Monday 10th August.

Applications are treated with the strictest of confidence. A shortlisting process may be undertaken. Applications received after the stated closing date will not be considered.

Please note that the role will be subject to Garda Vetting.

For any queries relating to this role please contact emerbegley@disability-federation.ie in advance of the closing date

It is expected that interviews will be held on the 25th/26th August.

DFI is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting an inclusive work environment. We are an equal opportunities employer, and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations, so that we can support disabled people to participate in this recruitment and selection process.

Please contact us at jobs@disability-federation.ie to let us know if you require reasonable accommodations in the selection process, and we will provide these to meet your needs, insofar as possible.

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

Summer recess is now underway, so this will be our last Oireachtas Access update until activities resume in September.

In the meantime, we will keep you up to date with consultation deadlines, as well as extra articles and news for our paid subscribers.

A reminder of our Access Media Series with Disabled Women Ireland, taking place every month from July-November on disabled representation in the Irish Media.

More information and book your place here.

Our regular weekly newsletter will also change to a fortnightly one this August to allow our team some R&R this summer.

Don’t miss our next Disability Pride Bumper Edition on the 29th of July, as well as our next Communication Europe Special Edition in early August.

Sign up here to make sure you’re on the list.

Thank you for your ongoing support, we will be in touch soon!

📺 Catch Up

📺 Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Ageing Complexity and Health Needs of People with Intellectual Disabilities - video recording with ISL Interpretation,15th July 2026

Speakers include: Representatives from the Trinity Centre for Ageing and the Life Course in Intellectual Disability - Trinity College Dublin

Opening statements can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s website here.

📺 Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Engagement on Pre-Budget Submissions resumed, 15th July 2026

Speakers include: Representatives from The Wheel, Irish Rural Link and County Tipperary Chamber

Opening statements can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s website here.

📺 Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), 16th July 2026

Speakers include: Representatives from National Council for Special Education (NCSE), Oide and Department of Education and Youth

Opening statements can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s website here.

📝 Reports

📝 Committee on Disability Matters - Travel Report: Attendance at the 19th Session of State Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities June 2026 - PDF Format - 17th July 2026

📝 Committee on Disability Matters - Travel Report: Site Visit to Limerick Disability Service Providers - PDF Format - 17th July 2026

Subscribe now

Are you signed up for our free weekly newsletter?

Every Wednesday, we share the latest disability advocacy news with 400+ readers in our free newsletter to support information sharing, participation and advocacy.

This newsletter isn’t shared through our Substack, but you can sign up here to have it delivered to you every week.

📢 Extra, Extra!

We have launched our News Hub Extra for paid subscribers to access extra News, Articles and Announcements.

Support us in our mission and become a paid subscriber for the cost of a coffee per month ☕

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

Dear Reader,

We hope you are staying well in this heat!

This week we are sharing a sneak peek of our Communicating Europe - August Edition, featuring an interview with qualified solicitor and lecturer in law at Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, Karen Costello, on all things Europe, the EU Presidency and how people can get involved in participation at an EU level.

This article is exclusively for our paid subscribers.

Upgrade your membership for the cost of a coffee per month to access this article, have first dibs on events and other perks, while supporting the work we do.

Read more

Call for input: Annual thematic study on the rights of persons with disabilities – twentieth anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Deadline: 01 September 2026

The OHCHR is preparing an annual thematic study on the rights of persons with disabilities to mark the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“The study will examine lessons learned and challenges in the development of human rights standards and norms over the past twenty years, including how these have been reflected in legislation, policy and institutional frameworks, and their impact on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with disabilities.

The study will draw on data, evidence and illustrative examples of progress, good practices and remaining challenges.

OHCHR invites States, national human rights institutions, regional organizations, civil society organizations, including organizations of persons with disabilities, academia, international organizations and other relevant stakeholders to submit written contributions.”

🔗 Find full details and how to make a submission here.

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

Opportunities Hub - About

The Opportunities Hub advertises employment opportunities related to rights, access and participation across Ireland.

All advertisements include key information to support transparent recruitment, including salary, work pattern, location, application method and closing date.

Please note that acceptance of an advertisement does not constitute endorsement by the Disability Participation News Hub of the advertising organisation, its services or its activities.

Interested in advertising a role?
Contact our team at info@disabilityparticipation.ie to request a quote or learn more about our advertising packages.

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

The information below contains live links for each session.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 14th July

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:35pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3pm: Motion without debate — Motion re Report of the Committee on Standing Orders and Dáil Reform Establishing Special Committee on Preventing and Responding to Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
3:05pm: Statement of Apology following the publication of the Report of the South East Commission of Investigation
5:25pm: Domestic Violence Judgments Register Bill 2026 — Second Stage (Jennie’s Law)
7:15pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Protecting the Copyright of Irish Artists in the era of Artificial Intelligence

Wednesday, 15th July

10am: Labour Party: Motion re Digital Divide and Back to School Costs
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:10pm: Referral to Committee: Victims of Sexual Violence Civil Protection Orders Bill 2025 — Order for Committee Stage
1:15pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
4pm: Domestic Violence Judgments Register Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages (Jennie’s Law)
9:30pm: Provision of Contraception Prescribing Service in Retail Pharmacy Businesses Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages
10pm: Deferred Divisions: Social Housing Passport Bill 2026 — Second Stage (Amendment)

Thursday, 16th July

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:50pm: Statements on the Fiscal Implications of a United Ireland

Seanad Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 14th July

3:45pm: Housing and Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages

Wednesday, 15th July

12:45pm: Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages
4pm: Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages
8pm: Motion re protecting rural Ireland

Thursday, 16th July

11:30am: Health (Provision of Contraception Prescribing Service in Retail Pharmacy Businesses) Bill 2026 — All Stages

Committee Schedule

Wednesday, 15th July

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Ageing Complexity and Health Needs of People with Intellectual Disabilities

Speakers include: Representatives from the Trinity Centre for Ageing and the Life Course in Intellectual Disability - Trinity College Dublin

9:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Engagement on Pre-Budget Submissions resumed

Thursday, 16th July

9:45am: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)

9:45am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Child Protection Matters and Special Care and Special Emergency Care Arrangements

1pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community —- Traveller Accommodation

📺 Catch Up

🔎 Dáil Debate — Social Democrats: Motion re A Place Called Home for Adults with an Intellectual Disability, 8th July 2026

🔎 Dáil Debate — Government Statements on Dementia, 9th July 2026

📺 Joint Committee on Health — How hospital emergency departments respond to patients presenting with mental health issues, video recording, 8th July 2026

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

📺 Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Engagement on Pre-Budget Submissions, video recording, 8th July 2026

Speakers include: Representatives from Disability Federation of Ireland, AsIAm and Vision Ireland.

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

📺 Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), video recording, 8th July 2026

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

Subscribe now

Are you signed up for our free weekly newsletter?

Every Wednesday, we share the latest disability advocacy news with 400+ readers in our free newsletter to support information sharing, participation and advocacy.

This newsletter isn’t shared through our Substack, but you can sign up here to have it delivered to you every week.

📢 Extra, Extra!

We have launched our News Hub Extra for paid subscribers to access extra News, Articles and Announcements.

Support us in our mission and become a paid subscriber for the cost of a coffee per month ☕

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

Read more

[Image: a colourful graphic with a paint stroke design and text reading: “Latest Newsletter Out Now! www.disabilityparticipation.ie. There is an illustration of a megaphone and a QR code at the bottom of the image.]

Latest Newsletter Our Now!

This week, we are continuing to keep you up to date with consultations, Oireachtas ongoings, calls for participation & much more.

Catch up on our 8th July edition here.

Are you signed up for our free weekly newsletter?

Every Wednesday, we share the latest disability advocacy news with 400+ readers in our free newsletter to support information sharing, participation and advocacy.

This newsletter isn’t shared through our Substack, but you can sign up here to have it delivered to you every week.

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

The information below contains live links for each session.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 7th July

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:35pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3:05pm: Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 — Report and Final Stages
7:30pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Planning for Constitutional Change Bill 2026 (Second Stage)

Wednesday, 8th July

10am: Social Democrats: Motion re A Place Called Home for Adults with an Intellectual Disability
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
1:10pm: Statements and Q&A post European Council meeting of 18th-19th June 2026, pursuant to Standing Order 133

Thursday, 9th July

10:25am: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Health
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:50pm: Statements on Dementia
4:15pm: Health (Provision of Contraception Prescribing Service in Retail Pharmacy Businesses) Bill 2026 — Second Stage
7:10pm: Private Members’ Bill: Social Housing Passport Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Seanad Éireann (live link)

Wednesday, 8th July

4pm: Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Thursday, 9th July

11:30am: Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Committee Schedule

Wednesday, 8th July

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — How hospital emergency departments respond to patients presenting with mental health issues

10am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Engagement on Pre-Budget Submissions

Speakers include: Representatives from Disability Federation of Ireland, AsIAm and Vision Ireland.

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)

4:30pm: Joint Committee on European Union Affairs — Priorities of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union: Social Policy Issues

7pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community — Traveller Accommodation

Thursday, 9th July

9:30am: Joint Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science — Sexual Violence and Harassment Policies and Procedures in Higher Education Institutions

9:45am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Engagement with the Children’s Residential and Aftercare Voluntary Association (CRAVA)

📺 Catch Up

📺 Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Transport for persons with disabilities — Video recording with ISL interpretation, 1st July 2026

Speakers include: Representatives from Irish Rail and Bus Éireann

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

📺 Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Ireland’s pathway to incorporation of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child into Irish Law — video recording, no ISL interpretation currently available, 2nd July 2026

• Opening statement, Dr. Niall Muldoon, Ombudsman for Children, Ombudsman for Children’s Office here (PDF)

• Joint Committee on Children and Equality, Report on Child Poverty and Deprivation — Report on Child Poverty and Deprivation

📺 Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) — Video Recording — no ISL interpretation currently available, 2nd July 2026

Speakers include: Representatives from the Irish Primary Principals’ Network, National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD), Education and Training Boards Ireland, Joint Managerial Body, Association of Community and Comprehensive Schools, National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education, National Principals’ Forum.

🔎 Dáil Éireann debate - Private Members’ Business (Independent Technical Group): Motion re Cost of Living - 1st July

Subscribe now

[Image: a graphic with a soft pastel blue and orange background. Text reads: "Latest Newsletter Out Now! Bumper Edition. www.disabilityparticipation.ie. " A Disability Pride flag and a black-and-white illustrated megaphone sit below the text with a QR code in the bottom right corner.]

📰 Catch up on our most recent Bumper Edition!

Find info on consultations, rights updates, calls for participation, and much more.

An extra long edition to enjoy alongside your cup of tea/coffee ☕

Catch up here, or the QR code in the image above.

Are you signed up for our free weekly newsletter?

Every Wednesday, we share the latest disability advocacy news with 400+ readers in our free newsletter to support information sharing, participation and advocacy.

This newsletter isn’t shared through our Substack, but you can sign up here to have it delivered to you every week.

📢 Extra, Extra!

We have launched our News Hub Extra for paid subscribers to access extra News, Articles and Announcements.

Support us in our mission and become a paid subscriber for the cost of a coffee per month!

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

The information below contains live links for each session.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 30th June

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:35pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3:05pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
7:50pm: Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages
9:50pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Motion re Childcare

Wednesday, 1st July

10am: Private Members’ Business (Independent Technical Group): Motion re Cost of Living
6:30pm: Statements on Ireland’s EU Presidency

Thursday, 2nd July

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation

Seanad Éireann (live link)

Wednesday, 1st July

6:30pm: Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 30th June

11am: Joint Committee on Artificial Intelligence — The Environment

Wednesday, 1st July

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Transport for persons with disabilities

Speakers include: Representatives from Irish Rail and Bus Éireann

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Public Only Consultant Contract (POCC) in the Rotunda Hospital and in Cork University Maternity Hospital, and related issues arising

10am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Engagement on Pre-Budget Submissions

Speakers include: Representatives from Rehab Group and the European Anti-Poverty Network Ireland

Thursday, 2nd July

9:30am: Joint Committee on Children and Equality — Ireland’s pathway to incorporation of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child into Irish Law

9:45am: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)

Speakers include: Representatives from the Irish Primary Principals’ Network, National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD), Education and Training Boards Ireland, Joint Managerial Body, Association of Community and Comprehensive Schools, National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education, National Principals’ Forum.

10am: Joint Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration — Launch of the Report on ‘Civil Legal Aid’ (Audio Visual Room)

1pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community — Current Conditions of the Traveller Accommodation sites on Dunsink Lane and the Proposed Development

📺 Catch Up

📺 Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Breaking Barriers-Disability and financial inclusion — Video recording, no ISL currently available

Speakers include: Representatives from Banking and Payments Federation Ireland and Sage Advocacy

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

📺 Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) — Video Recording, no ISL currently available

Speakers include: Representatives from the National Parents’ Council and Save Our SNAs.

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

Are you signed up for our free weekly newsletter?

Every Wednesday, we share the latest disability advocacy news with 400+ readers in our free newsletter to support information sharing, participation and advocacy.

This newsletter isn’t shared through our Substack, but you can sign up here to have it delivered to you every week.

📢 Extra, Extra!

We have launched our News Hub Extra for paid subscribers to access extra News, Articles and Announcements.

Support us in our mission and become a paid subscriber for the cost of a coffee per month!

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: A graphic for the Disability Participation “Spotlight Series”. At the top, the title “Spotlight Series” is styled using colourful cut-out magazine letters against a black background, with flowers, a newspaper butterfly, and the Disability Participation News Hub logo. White text reads: “This month we are chatting with... Christine O’Mahony.” The lower half of the graphic features a circular photo of Christine sitting on grass in front of large rainbow-coloured “PRIDE” letters at Athlone Summer Pride event. Surrounding the photo are logos for Longford-Westmeath Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Mullingar 4 All, Heartlands Pride, and the Disability Participation News Hub, alongside a Disability Pride flag and a megaphone illustration. The background is a dark, sparkling gradient rainbow effect.]

💡 Spotlight Series: Christine O’Mahony

We are on a mission to get to know and highlight Ireland’s activists, advocates and allies!

Each month, we aim the spotlight on incredible changemakers working to advance the human rights of disabled people across Ireland.

We are delighted to share our latest Spotlight Series Edition where we are chatting with Christine O’Mahony (she/her) — a dedicated and formidable activist who is making change happen here in the Midlands.

A reminder that you can listen to this edition through the Substack app, or by opening this edition on your browser.

Become a paid subscriber to have early access to our Spotlight Series each month by using the Subscribe button below.

Enjoy this edition and we will be in touch soon! ✨

Subscribe now

Q. Hey Christine! Tell us a little about yourself.

Christine: My name is Christine O’Mahony, I have ADHD, I am an activist, Black & Irish (Jamaican/Irish) who is also part of the LGBT+ Community. I have a background in law and currently work as a journalist (both paper and radio), clinical legal support officer, and will be pursuing a PHD in Sociology in September. I have set up my own non-profit, Mullingar 4 All CLG, with aims to integrate migrants in the Mullingar and surrounds area. I also volunteer as a director with the Disability Participation News Hub and I am the Chairperson of Heartlands Pride Athlone and Longford-Westmeath Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

I have won awards for my activism, most notably the LGBT+ GALA Awards for young trailblazer 2023 and in 2026 The Campaign and Activism Award from Longford Volunteer Centre.

I have raised close to €8000-10,000 for Palestine causes, and in 2026 along with my team, we organised the historic 1st Pride Parade in Athlone.

Q. You wear many hats when it comes to advocacy, what keeps you motivated to do the work you do.

Christine: A lot of my activism is centred around my personal experience – like being disabled, being lgbt, being a person of colour etc. I know I would not like somebody giving up on me, so this is what motivates me in my activism as a lot of the groups I represent are vulnerable and need the support. When we get great results e.g., organising cooking for the residents in the Direct Provision centre as they don’t have access to their own cooking facilities, its the smile on their faces that let me know I must continue.

Q. You and your team at Heartlands Pride recently organised Athlone’s first Summer Pride, congratulations! Tell us all about it and why this was important for the Midlands.

Christine: Pride Parade has always been a protest, to show people that we are here, we are queer and we are not going away. Coming out in rural Ireland is a scary experience, you do not get the warm welcome that folks receive in Dublin. In fact many LGBT+ Athlone people have moved away from Athlone citing that Athlone was a cold house to them and their LGBT+ identity and that Dublin was the place to go. This is why this Pride Parade in Athlone was so important for the visibility and to show young people that they don’t need to run away, there is a community here for them. This parade was also in memory of the late Michael Woods, a trailblazer who passed way in 2023. He attempted to put on a Pride Parade in 2020/2021 – but as we know the Covid19 pandemic meant that nobody could march or leave their houses.

Q. Do you have any projects or priorities for the year ahead that you’re looking forward to?

Christine: I am excited to get stuck in to transforming Mullingar 4 All into the non-profit of my dreams, as well as already planning for Heartlands Pride 2027!
While it is academic I am excited to start working on my PHD as it focuses on activist groups in Ireland and Palestinian solidarity.

Q. Is there any topic or issue you would like to highlight or draw attention to, or any change you’d like to see this year?

Christine: More information on the Neurodivergent umbrella group, especially ADHD. This Disability Pride Month I will be spreading more awareness on ADHD as people minimise this disability and think it is quirky, when there is so much more to this disability that people don’t realise.

Q. When you are not organising and advocating, what’s your favourite way to look after yourself and unwind?

Christine: TV, swimming, sauna sessions, and yoga.

Q. Anything people might be surprised to learn about you?

Christine: I got invited to the Áras once!

Q. Any book recommendations for our online Book Club this year?

Christine: I must admit I am not a big reader but I am excited to get my hands on “Queer Recovery Capital” edited by Dr David Patton and Dr Adam Brett – which has a chapter written by a friend, Ciaran Hanniffy. It is about LGBT+ people suffering from addiction and how they recover from it.

Q. Do you have a favourite quote or saying that inspires you?

Christine: This is a quote from a reggae song called “Keep it real” by Peter Hunnigale and Lukie D - “Ain’t no use in stressing out your brain, I hear you say “never again”, but keep it real and you will find a way, another way, another way”.

Q. Where can people find you if they’d like to follow your work?

@Simplicity_is_the_key15 – personal instagram

@Heartlandspride_athlone – Instagram page

@Mullingar4All – Instagram page

Heartlands pride substack: https://substack.com/@heartlandsprideathlone/posts

Subscribe now

Catch us back here next month with another Spotlight edition!

In the meantime…
📬 Sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter every Wednesday.
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

The information below contains live links for each session.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 23rd June

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
10pm: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Children, Disability and Equality

Wednesday,24th June

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:10pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
3pm: Statements on Pride
5:20pm: Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Thursday, 25th June

8:45am: Parliamentary Questions — Tánaiste and Minister for Finance
10:25am: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation

Seanad Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 23rd June

8pm: Government Business: Health (Amendment) (Home Support Providers) Bill 2025 — Committee Stage

Wednesday, 24th June

12:45pm: Guardianship of Infants and Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2026 — Second Stage
6pm: Insurance (Disregard of Certain Medical History and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2025 — Second Stage

Thursday, 25th June

12:45pm: Domestic Violence Judgments Register Bill 2026 — Committee and remaining Stages

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 23rd June

11:30am: Joint Committee on Public Petitions and the Ombudsmen — Petition No. P00017/26 - Discuss Severe Lack of Services and Facilities for People and Families of those living with Intellectual Disabilities

6pm: Select Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage — Committee Stage Consideration: Housing and Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026

6pm: Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade — Committee Stage Consideration: Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 — Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Wednesday, 24th June

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Breaking Barriers-Disability and financial inclusion

Speakers include: Representatives from Banking and Payments Federation Ireland and Sage Advocacy

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Recent significant developments and issues in relation to health services.

9:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Pathways to Inclusive Employment – Workability Programmes

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)

Thursday, 25th June

9:30am: Joint Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science — Sexual Violence and Harassment Policies and Procedures in Higher Education Institutions

12:30pm: Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade — Select Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade

📺 Catch Up

📺 Joint Committee on Disability Matters — ”Counting the Cost - Disability and financial independence” — Video Recording, 17th June, no ISL currently available.

Speakers include: Representatives from Rehab Group, AsIAm, and the Irish Wheelchair Association

Opening statements from the speakers can be found on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

🔍 Catch Up

*Dáil Éireann debate - Tuesday, 16 Jun 2026 - Health (Abolition of Three Day Wait Rule) (Amendment) Bill 2026: Second Stage

*Find the Health (Abolition of Three Day Wait Rule) (Amendment) Bill 2026 here.

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: a red graphic with text reading: “Report Launch. The Disability Act 2005 at 21: Reflecting, Reforming, Reimagining. Date & Time: 25th June 2026, 11am-1pm. Location: The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC), 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7, D07 CR20. Scan the QR code to register.]

Dear Reader,

We have been asked to share the below invitation with you for the launch of a timely report on The Disability Act 2005 by Prof Shivaun Quinlivan & Dr Charles O’Mahony .

Given the ongoing consultation on the Act itself (see our live consultation page for links), this may be of interest to you and your networks.

Please note that limited spaces are available and the event is in person only.

Deadline to register is today, 19th June at 5pm.

“We are now delighted to invite you to the launch of our report, The Disability Act 2005 at 21: Reflecting, Reforming, Reimagining.

The launch will take place from 11am to 1pm on Thursday the 25th of June 2026 at the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Event Space, 16–22 Green Street, Dublin 7.

The report brings together legal and policy analysis, findings from our national survey that sought to capture the perspectives shared by disabled people, Disabled Persons’ Organisations, advocates, policymakers, academics, and service providers. It also reflects the rich discussions that took place during our conference last December and identifies key priorities for reform as the Government considers changes to the Disability Act 2005.

To register for the event, please complete the registration form at the following link:

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hrHjE0bEq0qcbZq5u3aBbBWvcegUnABMoK9xwR0z2LtUNk1KTEJSTEIzTlBaMVc0UURXR1BHS05XMC4u

The deadline for registration is Friday the 19th of June 2026 at 5pm."

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led, not for profit organisation.

www.disabilityparticipation.ie

info@disabilityparticipation.ie

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 16th June

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:35pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3pm: Motion without debate: Motion re Proposed approval by Dáil Éireann of the Data Protection Act 2018 (Sections 51(3) and 60(6)) (Scoping Exercise in response to requests from Dignity4Patients) (Amendment) Regulations 2026
3:05pm: Taoiseach’s Questions
7:25pm: Private Members’ Business (Sinn Féin): Health (Abolition of Three Day Wait Rule) (Amendment) Bill 2026 (Second Stage)

Wednesday, 17th June

10am: Private Members’ Business (Labour Party): Motion re Data Centres, energy use and climate change
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
4:10pm: Guardianship of Infants and Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2026 — Report and Final Stages

Thursday, 18th June

8:45am: Parliamentary Questions — Minister for Social Protection
12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:50pm: Statements on Rare Diseases
5:15pm: Committee Report: Motion re Report entitled “Report on Inclusive Education for Persons with Disabilities”

Seanad Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 16th June

4:45pm: Health (Amendment) (Home Support Providers) Bill 2025 — Second Stage
6pm: Domestic Violence Judgments Register Bill 2026 — Order for Second Stage and Second Stage

Wednesday, 17th June

5pm: Statements to mark Irish AIDS Day 2026

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 16th June

11:00am: Joint Committee on Artificial Intelligence — The Environment (ii)

3pm: Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage — Unlocking Barriers to the Delivery of Housing

6:30pm: Joint Committee on Public Petitions and the Ombudsmen — Consideration of Public Petition No. P00032/25 - Review of Inaccessible Public-Facing Buildings in Ireland

Wednesday, 17th June

9:30am: Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Counting the Cost - Disability and financial independence

Speakers include: Representatives from Rehab Group, AsIAm, and the Irish Wheelchair Association

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Committee Stage Consideration: Health (Amendment) Bill 2025

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science — Sexual Violence and Harassment Policies and Procedures in Higher Education Institutions

12:30pm: Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy — Climate Action Plan

Thursday, 18th June

9:45am: Joint Committee on Education and Youth — Inclusive Education: Allocation, Roles, and Training Needs of Special Education Teachers (SETs) and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)

10am: Joint Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage — Launch of the Housing Committee report on Homelessness (Audio Visual Room)

1pm: Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community — Traveller Accommodation

📺 Catch Up

🔎 Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Cost of Disability Strategic Focus Network Summit

Catch up on the opening statement from the Minister for Social Protection here (PDF).

📝 Consultations

Public Consultation on the Pre-budget 2027 Submissions

Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development

Deadline: 5pm, 15th June 2026

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

Support our work in creating access to information and connecting community this July!

We are a disabled led-not for profit, dedicated to connecting people with rights, information and ways to get involved in decision making.

We create free weekly newsletter to keep people up to date with national and international advocacy news.

We collaborate with Disabled Persons’ Organisations on events and projects to raise awareness of important issues and bring people together.

This July is Disability Pride Month and we are seeking sponsors for our newsletters!

Reach a diverse and engaged audience while supporting access to information and decision making!

Speak to our team about sponsoring our Disability Pride Month editions, supporting our mission, talks, training, and collaborating on ways to make change.

✉️ info@disabilityparticipation.ie
🔗 www.disabilityparticipation.ie

[Image descriptions: graphics with the Disability Pride Flag background and text contained in the text above.]

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

[Image: a graphic with a dark and light purple background featuring images associated with media, including an illuminated “On Air” sign, microphones, television cameras, a newspaper, and a camera operator. Text reads: “Access Media. A series on disabled representation in the Irish Media.” Logos for Coimisiún na Meán , Disability Participation News Hub and Disabled Women Ireland are along the bottom of the image.]

Access Media: A series on Disabled Representation in the Irish Media

Calling all media and communications professionals!

Would you like to learn more about how you can make Irish media more inclusive when it comes to the representation of disabled people?

We are delighted to once again join forces with Disabled Women Ireland, with the support of Coimisiún na Meán, to raise awareness about how disabled people are represented in Irish media, and how we can all play a part in creating change.

Our Access Media Series aims to connect you with disabled people working behind the scenes, on our screens, and across all forms of media, on the challenges and opportunities in accessing and working in these spaces, and what can be done to further inclusion and representation.

Sessions will take place online from July to November 2026, featuring webinars and panels where you can learn more on the following topics:

• Session 1: Language and Ethical Storytelling

• Session 2: Accessing Production Spaces in Ireland as a Disabled Person

• Session 3: Representation of Disabled People in Irish Journalism

• Session 4: Representation of Disabled People in Irish Film, TV and Broadcast Media

• Session 5: Misinformation and Disinformation in the Media – The Impact on Disabled People

ISL interpretation will be available for each session.

Register via Eventbrite and spread the word with your networks!

Keep an eye on our social media for speaker updates and highlights.

This series is supported by Coimisiún na Meán.

[Image: a graphic with a dark and light purple background with text reading: “Access Media. Language and Ethical Storytelling. Date: 21st July. Time: 7pm–8pm. Venue: Zoom. Registration via Eventbrite. ISL interpretation available. Speakers include: Dr. Amy Hassett, Gillian Kearns, Nem Kearns and Nicole Lonican.” Images of each speaker line the right hand side of the image. Logos for Coimisiún na Meán, Disability Participation News Hub and Disabled Women Ireland are along the bottom of the image. A QR code linking to the eventbrite for this event is in the bottom right hand corner]

Access Media: Session #1 - Language and Ethical Storytelling

Language shapes how we see the world and how we see each other. The words and frames used to describe disabled people in the media have a profound impact on public understanding, on policy, and on the ability of disabled people to assert and realise their rights.

In this session, we explore how language and framing around disability in the media can either reinforce harmful stereotypes or become a powerful tool for change. We’ll examine what ethical storytelling looks like in practice: how disabled people’s stories and experiences can be shared in ways that are honest and compelling without being reductive, patronising, or demeaning.

We’ll hear from disabled people who have engaged extensively with the media about the real challenges of navigating media spaces as a disabled person, and we’ll showcase examples of good practice - meaningful collaborations between disabled people and media makers where the interests of both are genuinely served. These are stories that draw attention to important issues while preserving the dignity and complexity of the people at their centre.

This session is an invitation to rethink what responsible, rights-affirming media coverage of disability looks like - and to explore what becomes possible when disabled people and the media work together, not around each other.

Details:
Date: 21^st July 2026
Time: 7pm -8pm
Venue: Zoom
Register for Access Media: Session #1 here.

This series is supported by Coimisiún na Meán.

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: Graphic featuring the Disability Pride flag colours in diagonal stripes across a dark grey background. A pale yellow starburst shape appears in the centre with a purple arrow pointing towards a QR code in the bottom right corner. The Disability Participation News Hub logo appears in the bottom left corner. Text reads: “What does Disability Pride Month mean to you? We want to hear your thoughts!”]

What does Disability Pride Month mean to you?

We want to hear your thoughts!

Disability Pride month takes place in July, and we are working on a special edition of our Disability Participation News Hub newsletter, where we share what Disability Pride/Disability Pride Month means to you.

You can also let us know if there’s something you would like to raise awareness of or highlight this Disability Pride Month.

Video and audio submissions also accepted!

You can choose to share art/images/photography for this edition too inspired by Disability Pride Month.

You can choose to have your responses anonymous.

You can also choose to add your details to be quoted in the edition and our social media posts/website.

Please note that we may not be able to share all submissions received.

Feel free to share with friends, colleagues and networks.

⏰ Deadline to take part: 10th July 2026

Fill out our Disability Pride Month Survey here.

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: Graphic with a purple, blue and white background and the Disability Participation News Hub logo. Text reads: “Consultation Update. Public consultation to inform the review of the Disability Act 2005. Department of Children, Disability and Equality. Deadline: 9th September 2026. www.disabilityparticipation.ie.” A megaphone icon appears at the bottom right hand corner.]

Public Consultation to inform the Review of the Disability Act 2005

📢 Have your say!

The Minister for Children, Disability & Equality has launched a public consultation to inform the review of the Disability Act 2005.

They want to hear from disabled people, their families and carers, their representative groups, and Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs).

The purpose of this consultation process is to inform the review of the Disability Act in its entirety.

Submissions are invited via email, post, audio/video, online form, Braille and Irish Sign Language.

A template has been created to support submission making and guidance documentation is available on the consultation website in PDF, Word Format, Easy Read and Irish Sign Language.

🔗 All details here

📰 For more disability advocacy updates, sign up to our free weekly newsletter

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image Description: A graphic with a dark blue background depicting a black and white megaphone and the Disability Participation News Hub Logo in the top right hand corner. In the centre of the image, large white text on a pink banner reads: “Oireachtas Access”.]

Oireachtas Access Bulletin

Our Oireachtas Access Bulletin aims to keep you in the loop with the development of law and policy that affects your rights.

Please note that the below schedule is subject to change and does not contain all information on ongoings in the Oireachtas.

Any updates, or a more detailed schedule is available over on the Houses of the Oireachtas website.

Dáil Éireann (live link)

Tuesday, 9th June

2pm: Leaders’ Questions
2:35pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
3pm: Taoiseach’s Questions

Wednesday, 10th June

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
4:30pm: Government Business: Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 — Second Stage

Thursday, 11th June

12pm: Leaders’ Questions
12:45pm: Questions on Policy or Legislation
1:50pm: Housing and Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026 — Second Stage
6:25pm: Private Members’ Bill: Protection of Voice and Image Bill 2025 — Second Stage

Committee Schedule

Tuesday, 9th June

11:15am: Joint Committee on Artificial Intelligence — The Environment

11:30am: Joint Committee on Public Petitions and the Ombudsmen — Consideration of Public Petitions:

*Consideration of Public Petition No. P00015/26 - Prohibition of the Commercial Use of Protected Disability Diagnoses in Business Naming

*Consideration of Public Petition No. P00017/26 - Discuss Severe Lack of Services and Facilities for People and Families of those living with Intellectual Disabilities

Wednesday, 10th June

9:30am: Joint Committee on Health — Health strategy in relation to the aging population, including the development of care options other than nursing homes

9:45am: Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development — Cost of Disability Strategic Focus Network Summit

Speakers include: Minister Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht; and Social Protection, Department of Social Protection

Thursday, 11th June

9:30am: Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy — Ireland’s EU Presidency, Circularity and Bioeconomy

📺 Catch Up

📺 Joint Committee on Disability Matters — Access to employment for persons with disabilities — Video recording with ISL Interpretation

Speakers include: Minister Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment

Opening statements for speakers are available in PDF format on the “Recent Documents” section of the Committee’s webpage here.

🔎 Dáil Debates

Sinn Féin Motion on Cost of Disability - Debate Transcript - 26th May 2026

📝 Consultations

Public Consultation on the Pre-budget 2027 Submissions

Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development

Deadline: 15th June 2026

Subscribe now

Subscribe using the button above to receive our Oireachtas Access bulletin every Monday.

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.

[Image: A square graphic with a dark blue background and text reading: “Communicating Europe. A series exploring rights, access, and Ireland’s EU Presidency for 2026. www.disabilityparticipation.ie. Disability Participation News Hub.” The logo of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is in the bottom left hand corner. An illustration of a black and white megaphone is next to a map of Europe with EU stars in the centre of the image.]

Communicating Europe: A Series on Rights, Access, and Ireland’s EU Presidency for 2026

Dear Reader,

We are delighted to share that we will be launching a new, limited-edition newsletter series from July to December this year - Communicating Europe: A Series on Rights, Access, and Ireland’s EU Presidency for 2026.

This series aims to connect you with information about Ireland’s EU Presidency, disability rights and accessibility at EU level, and how to get involved and influence change.

Each month, our newsletter subscribers will receive a special edition of our Communication Europe series, featuring articles by Níamh Ní Hoireabhaird, as well as facts, resources, and interviews.

As part of this project we will also have new resources available to raise awareness about Ireland’s EU Presidency.

If you aren’t already signed up to our weekly newsletter, you can click this link to subscribe for weekly updates and our Communicating Europe Series.

To keep up to date with this project and others, head over to our website to learn more.

We’d also love to hear your thoughts!

Is there anything you’d like us to explore in this series?

Let us know by commenting below.

Leave a comment

[Image: A square graphic with a dark blue background. Large white text at the top reads: "Communicating Europe." A bright pink banner across the centre reads: "What is the EU Presidency and how does it work?" The Disability Participation News Hub logo appears in the top right corner. A QR code is displayed on the left-hand side, with the logo of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade beneath it. In the centre is a black and white illustrated megaphone with yellow lightning bolts. On the right is a blue map of Europe featuring yellow EU stars.]

Communicating Europe Series: Edition #1

What is the EU Presidency, and how does it work?

Welcome to the first of our Communication Europe Series, where we explore rights, access and Ireland’s EU Presidency for 2026.

In this edition, we are beginning our journey in understanding what the EU Presidency is and how it works.

This edition features an article by Níamh Ní Hoireabhaird, facts, resources, news and upcoming events related to the presidency.

Link to Edition #1 of our Communicating Europe Series here.

What is the EU Presidency, and how does it work?

Article by Níamh Ní Hoireabhaird

From 1 July to December 2026, Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This will be the eighth time Ireland has held the presidency, having occupied the position seven times previously, in 1975, 1979, 1984, 1990, 1996, 2004, and 2013.

What is it?

The Council of the European Union, sometimes referred to as the Council of Ministers, is where government ministers from each EU country meet to negotiate, amend and adopt legislation.

Unlike the roles of President of the Europe Parliament, the European Council and the European Commission, this is not an elected position. Instead, the Presidency has rotates between EU member states every six months. Currently, each of the 27 member states hold the role every 13.5 years.

The Presidency is responsible for leading the Council’s legislative work, and acting as a coordinator between the other EU member states.

When a country holds the presidency, it is responsible for tasks like: planning and chairing meetings of the Council and its preparatory bodies, and representing the Council in relations with other EU institutions, particularly the European Parliament and the Commission.

This means that the country holding the Presidency has an important role in deciding when Council meetings are held, how they run and what is discussed.

During a country’s Presidency, they must act neutrally and impartially.

How does it work?

Groups of three member states holding successive presidencies, known as a ‘trio’, work together to ensure consistency across their terms as President. Ireland is part of a trio with Lithuania and Greece, both of which will host their presidencies in 2027.

Ireland will be taking on the role of the rotating presidency from Cyprus, which held the Presidency from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026. Cyprus is last in a trio of presidencies with Poland and Denmark, which held their presidencies in 2025.

Before their term starts, a trio agrees on their shared priorities that the Council will focus on ahead of their combined 18-month Presidency - this is referred to as a ‘trio programme’. Each state then sets its own, more detailed 6-month agenda.

Ireland’s Presidency

The Presidency is an opportunity for Ireland to showcase its administrative abilities to other European governments.

If the Presidency goes well, it will demonstrate to other countries that Ireland is a trustworthy diplomatic partner.

During its Presidency, Ireland will host 22 Informal ministerial meetings as well as a meeting of the European Political Community and an informal meeting of the European Council, and over 250 other important meetings and conferences.

Ireland’s priorities for the Presidency are competitiveness, values and security.

In a speech about the country’s upcoming Presidency, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen Entee stated,

“Hosting the Presidency is a significant opportunity for Ireland…It is a chance to shape discussions on the issues that matter most to people and to showcase Ireland on the European stage.”

This series is supported by the Communicating Europe Initiative through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Subscribe now

Want to support our work?

📰 Sign up here to receive our free weekly newsletter every Wednesday
🌱 Donate here or become a paid subscriber to support our work.
☕ Buy us a Coffee here.
🤝 Become an Access Ally here.

The Disability Participation News Hub CLG is a disabled-led not for profit organisation.