Bridging the Gap: Local Authorities and Disability Inclusion

We commissioned Dr. Charles Mahoney and Dr. Mary Keogh to undertake research on the implementation of the UN CRPD at a local level. The final report was launched at an event on the 28 January. The event brought together local government officers, representatives from relevant public bodies, researchers, policy experts, and community advocates to discuss the findings of recent research, share perspectives, and chart a path forward for meaningful change.

The UN CRPD provides a comprehensive international framework to promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities, ensuring their full inclusion and participation in all aspects of society. While it is essential that the UN CRPD framework is reflected in state policy and legislation, inclusion and participation should be felt in a material way by people with disabilities in their local communities across the country. It is important as a result, to embed a human rights approach at a local authority level. This research aimed to bridge the gap, and provide evidence about how disability rights are and can be supported by local authorities.

Read the summary report here.

Read the full report here.

Panelist John Fulham from the Irish Wheelchair Association speaking about local authorities at the Briding The Gap launch