SIPTU: Disabled people are forgotten

SIPTU has called on all sectors of Irish society to promote the full economic, social and cultural rights of people with disabilities in Ireland.

Addressing a meeting of the Irish Trade Union Trust to mark International Day of People with Disabilities, SIPTU General Secretary, Joe O'Flynn said that over 140,000 Irish citizens with disabilities are long-term welfare dependants and are often forgotten.

As a result, he said, their potential contribution to Irish society is lost.

"As citizens with equal rights, people with disabilities, their families and carers should not be made to suffer the long-term effect of such negative attitudes," said Mr O'Flynn.