To: The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Minister for Social Protection, The Taoiseach,
Fairness Now: Support for People with Disabilities
We are calling on the government to formally recognize and compensate for the 'Cost of Disability' by implementing an immediate and permanent increase of at least €500 to support individuals with disabilities, alongside the introduction of a dedicated 'Cost of Disability' payment to offset daily financial burdens. Furthermore, we demand a commitment to enforcing full wheelchair accessibility across all public buildings, as current structural barriers not only limit our independence but also compound the financial strain we already face. These measures are essential to ensuring that people with disabilities can participate fully in society with the same dignity, autonomy, and financial security as every other citizen.
Why is this important?
It is important because the "Cost of Disability" is not just a financial statistic; it is a systemic barrier that restricts the fundamental rights of independence, dignity, and equal participation in society. When individuals are forced to spend significantly more to achieve the same standard of living as others, it traps many in a cycle of poverty and exclusion that is entirely preventable through policy change.
A Call to Collective Justice: This is about ensuring that no citizen is left behind because of a systemic failure to recognize the true cost of living with a disability. Joining this campaign is a stand for equality, signaling that a fair society must account for the diverse needs of all its members.
The Power of Collective Voice: When you, as a representative of this struggle, are joined by others, it transforms a personal challenge into a public mandate. A large volume of signatures makes it significantly harder for decision-makers to ignore the necessity of a "Cost of Disability" payment and improved accessibility.
Creating Lasting Change: Your campaign is not just seeking a temporary fix; it is pushing for structural improvements—like mandatory accessibility in public buildings and sustainable financial support—that will improve the quality of life for the entire disability community for years to come.
Shared Responsibility: Accessibility and economic equity are community-wide benefits. By supporting this campaign, others are contributing to a more inclusive, accessible, and compassionate society that benefits everyone, not just those currently affected.
