Disabilities legislation 'should contain legally enforceable rights'

A disabilities lobby group has urged the Government to ensure that any new disabilities legislation contains legally enforceable rights.

The Disability Legislation Consultative Group, which was set up at the request of the Government, said the Ombudsman's powers should be broadened to ensure that the disabled are not discriminated against.

Spokesperson Angela Kerins said: "People with disabilities should have a right to services and . . . duties should be put on the State to remove any barriers to people with disabilities in mainstream activity."