Noel Ahern
Question:60 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform if he will introduce a Bill of Rights for people with physical or mental disabilities.
Written Answers. - Disabled Persons' Rights.
I intend to bring forward, in the course of this year, equality legislation covering employment and non-employment areas and dealing with discrimination on a wide range of grounds, including disability. This legislation is complex and both Government Departments and outside interests have to be consulted fully.
On 29 November 1993 I announced the establishment of the Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities. The Commission was launched on 8 December, 1993.
The terms of reference of the Commission require it, inter alia, to advise the Government on practical measures necessary to ensure that people with disabilities can exercise their rights to participate, to the fullest extent of their potential, in economic, social and cultural life.
I understand that the Commission in its deliberations will consider what additional action is necessary to advance the interests of people with disabilities. When I receive the recommendations of the Commission, I shall review the general position to determine what other measures, in addition to my anti-discrimination legislation, may be needed to promote the interests of people with disabilities.