Ahern accused of hypocrisy over Special Olympics

TAOISEACH Bertie Ahern was yesterday accused of gross hypocrisy by providing millions of euro for the Special Olympics while the Government is failing to meet the basic needs of disabled people.

The accusation came as around 100 parents and representatives of disability groups protested outside Dublin's Mansion House, where Mr Ahern launched the European Year of People with Disabilities.

They were protesting over a Government freeze in funding for the sector, which means waiting lists for basic services will grow substantially.