MORE THAN 100 people from across the world living with Down syndrome gathered in Dublin yesterday to discuss issues affecting their daily lives, with independent living and employment among the topics discussed.
About 120 adults attended the parliamentary-style debate, which was organised by Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI), at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham to share their experiences.
One of the main themes that emerged on the day was how people with Down syndrome are perceived by society, a spokeswoman for the group said.
“What really emerged from the synod is that the issues affecting people’s lives most is how society perceives them. They spoke about being stared at or treated like children, and how difficult that is,” DSI’s independence officer Gráinne Murphy said.
The event came a day before the main World Down Syndrome Congress begins at Dublin City University.
There are about 7,000 people in Ireland living with Down syndrome, with adults facing challenges in areas such as employment and education opportunities.
“The majority of people with Down syndrome now go through mainstream schools,” Ms Murphy said. “At that point education comes to an abrupt end.”
The synod, which was the first of its kind, was recorded, and the various issues raised by international speakers will be analysed on a country-by-country basis before a paper is prepared. The group is hoping the event will raise awareness in Ireland, and said the event would give adults their voice.
Ms Murphy said many of the speakers, regardless of their location, felt they needed more meaningful employment and further education opportunities. She called on colleges to adapt courses for those with particular needs.
