Independent disability agency ‘vital’

THE National Disability Authority (NDA) has called on the Government to retain an independent agency to deal with disability issues.

The call comes as the Government plans to merge a number of state agencies working in the equality and human rights sectors.

The proposed merger, mooted as part of the Government’s state agency rationalisation plans, would see the amalgamation of the National Disability Authority, the Equality Authority, the Human Rights Commission, the Equality Tribunal and the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner into one agency.

Chairperson of the NDA, Angela Kerins, said that the retention of an independent agency was vital to implementing the National Disability Strategy.

“The National Disability Strategy is at a critical stage of implementation and impacts across a wide range of government departments and public services.

It is vital, therefore, that a dedicated, independent agency is working to drive through the National Disability Strategy which is so critical in improving the lives of adults and children with disabilities. Much remains to be done to ensure its successful implementation,” she said.

Ms Kerins added that the NDA would work with the Government to ensure disability remained a priority.

“The NDA would always want to collaborate with Government to ensure that all measures to achieve efficiency and value for money are taken. We welcome the consultative process that the Department of Justice has engaged in on the proposed amalgamation of non-commercial state bodies,” she said.

Green Party Justice and Equality spokesperson Ciarán Cuffe yesterday voiced concern at the proposed merger.

“I think we have to tread very carefully. These agencies play a vital role in safeguarding civic and social wellbeing. They provide advice and expertise to the Government and are also instrumental in ensuring that the state adheres to its social justice and human rights obligations,” he said.

Deputy Cuffe said alternate arrangements could be found to provide savings.

“Merging such agencies, that have a clearly separate functions is not a logical step. Yes, we are facing difficulties with the public finances and perhaps we could look at alternate arrangements in terms of finding savings through the provision of common support services to these agencies but I believe a full merger is not the way forward.”