Disabled call for extra funding

The disabled are calling on the Government to reconsider their decision not to allocate any extra funding for people with disabilities this year.

The decision was made in this year's budget not to increase funding for services used by disabled people.

People with Disabilities in Ireland (PwDI) say the lack of resources is unfair particularly during 2003, the European year of people with a disability.

Head of PwDI Michael Ringrose is urging the Government to review the lack of funding this week in the Dail when a debate on disability takes place.

He argues that the disabled are not looking for a huge amount of extra funding but that their request is justified considering Ireland is still a rich country.

Over 70 % of people with disabilities in Ireland are unemployed. In addition, according to PwDI, 10% of people suffer from disabilities.