Call for applications for delegates to the Fifth European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities

The Fifth European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities will be taking place in Brussels on Tuesday 23 May 2023. 

As one of the national members of the European Disability Forum (EDF), DFI will be leading a delegation to the event and are now seeking applications from persons with disabilities or with a lived experience of disability to be part of of our delegation. 

Applications are now closed. We are grateful to all those who took the time to apply and we will be in touch as soon as possible. DFI’s delegation will comprise 13 delegates. This is the maximum number allowed as it corresponds with the number of Irish MEP seats at the European Parliament. 

Frequently Asked Questions on the Fifth European Parliament for Persons with Disabilities 

When is the European Parliament for Persons with Disabilities taking place?

This event is taking place on Tuesday 23 May 2023 in Brussels.  

Will there be a cost to me to attend?

DFI will cover the upfront costs of delegate’s accommodation, flights, transport to and from the event and to and from the airport. DFI will also provide a daily food allowance. These costs will be reimbursed to the DFI by way of sponsorship from Irish MEPs through the EU’s Visitors Programme. Any additional monies required will be out of pocket for each delegate.

Can I bring a PA?

Yes. Any PA traveling with a delegate will be counted as part of the delegation. 

Is there a cost to bring my PA?

There are no additional costs. Any PA travelling with a delegate will be counted as part of the overall delegation.  Costs will be covered in the same way as any other delegate. 

Can I attend as an individual or do I need to represent an organisation?

You can apply to be part of the Irish delegation in an individual capacity or representing an organisation.  

Who else will be travelling?

DFI’s delegation will comprise 13 delegates. This is the maximum number allowed as it corresponds with the number of Irish MEP seats at the European Parliament. The delegation will be led by John Dolan, CEO of DFI. Other DFI staff members may attend to coordinate the delegation throughout the planned visit.   

How many other people will be attending the European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities?

The EPPD will be taking place in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Brussels. Delegations from each Member State of the European Union will be present. 600 disability advocates, policymakers and other stakeholders are expected to attend on the day.  

How many days will I be away for?

To be confirmed. Most likely two days and two nights. Most likely from 22 - 24 May 2023.  

What will I be doing at the parliament?

You will be attending panels and plenary debates on the following topics:  

• UN CRPD 
• Political and Civil participation 
• Free movement 
• A more social Europe  
• The EU’s resilience to crisis.  

Each national delegation will also have the chance to make a contribution on one of these topics. This will be agreed and prepared in advance. There will also be many networking opportunities.  

Will I have to speak to media? No there will be no requirement for you to speak to media but if you would like to be part of interviews and podcasts before and during the event then we would be delighted to facilitate that. 

ENDS