The real challenge for people with disabilities is to break down all barriers that continue to exclude them from full participation in our communities, according to the National Disability Authority (NDA).
Publishing its annual report for 2001 and its second strategic plan today, the NDA set out what it says are the challenges to be met for people with disabilities in the next two years.
The 2004-2006 plan, which has been laid before the Oireachtas, was based on consultation with people with disabilities, parents and carers as well as public and voluntary organisations.
NDA chair Ms Angela Kerins said the body was mindful of the "considerable groundwork" laid in the first three years of its existence, as well as the significant challenges that lie ahead.
"The agenda and challenge for the next three years is to build on that work and the work of all those in the disability sector to continue to effect real change in the lives of people with disabilities, their families and carers in Ireland."
Key priorities for the next two years will be to effect change in the areas of health, education, transport, poverty, employment and training. The NDA will also focus on building reliable data to underpin the planning and development of policy and services for people with disabilities.
The body says it will also assist Government departments to maximise accessibility in public services and will work to inform and challenge attitudes in Irish society regarding disability issues.
Ms Kerins said: "The forthcoming period is an important one. The Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Bill, when passed, will provide for inclusion of children with disabilities in mainstream schools in a planned and resourced way.
"The Disabilities Bill and its accompanying sectoral plans are eagerly awaited. The challenge is the continuation of the partnership and co-operation that were so clearly shown throughout the European Year of People with Disabilities and through the Disability Legislative Consultation Group."