Disability rights campaigner Martin Naughton dies aged 62
One of the country's leading disability rights campaigners has died.
Martin Naughton, 62, led a sleep-out at Government Buildings last year to demand changes to home care funding and was central to other demonstrations at the Dail in recent years for better services and funding.
President Michael D Higgins led tributes to the Galway native and founder of the Centre for Independent Living, describing him as an "indefatigable advocate for human rights".
"Martin Naughton gained widespread respect through his lifelong campaign for the inclusion of people living with disabilities and through his work with countless statutory and non-governmental organisations," the President said.
"Having experienced in his early years the once widespread practice of institutionalised living, he became a formidable and tireless campaigner for the right of people with disabilities to live in their own communities and homes."
Mr Naughton had spinal muscular atrophy and spent years of his childhood living in St Mary's Hospital in Baldoyle, Dublin.
In his adult years as an activist he worked with the Independent Living movement, the Disability Federation of Ireland, Aiseanna Tacaiochta, Disability Options and Vantastic.
He also led the People with Disabilities campaign, which personally challenged Taoiseach Enda Kenny to revise home care packages last year after the budget.
"As a political activist, Martin Naughton had the vision, skills and determination to build solidarity between all those who strive for equality, dignity and the fulfilment of human rights for all groups in society, making him a valuable ally for a multitude of social justice groups," Mr Higgins said.
RIP Martin Naughton Thank you for everything. We will miss you more than words can convey. https://t.co/c73G4CjDOL
— ILMIreland (@ILMIreland) October 13, 2016
"His struggle for equality in Ireland and internationally has been an inspiration.
"Martin Naughton will be deeply missed not just by his sisters and family but also by his wide circle of friends and supporters."
Statement by President Michael D. Higgins on the death of disability rights activist Martin Naughton: https://t.co/wVqCRQRLLO pic.twitter.com/jM7ebDPae0
— President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) October 13, 2016
