McDowell snub shows hypocrisy

THE breathtaking hypocrisy of a Government that likes to see itself as a champion of the cause of the Special Olympics was underlined yesterday when Justice Minister Michael McDowell snubbed a Dáil probe into why the Coalition is blocking a crucial UN treaty on the rights of disabled people.

Coupled with its stalling of domestic legislation to improve the plight of people with disabilities, the minister’s non-appearance speaks volumes about an administration widely perceived by disabled people as one that persistently denies them their rights.

The committee on human rights learned of his snub hours before meeting. Instead of attending, Mr McDowell was unveiling initiatives aimed at combating alcohol abuse.