Disability Act should be a shining example, but it’s a shaming one

For generations, disability in Ireland has been seen as the remit of charity, but people with disabilities have begun to rebel against this idea, writes Fergus Finlay.

Why should we even be surprised? This newspaper yesterday reported that the HSE had failed in its statutory duty to more than 2,000 children with a disability. Not for the first time, the Irish Examiner has led with a story that ought to shame the system.

But will it represent a long-term and sustainable embarrassment for the State? I’m guessing not. The HSE will put its head down, and, if pressed, will mutter something about resources. None of the families will have the energy or the resources to fight the failure of the State. And people with disabilities will continue to wait.