Sir, – The next government’s programme for disabled and older people brings back the language of “strive” through the back door. Rejected by the public in last year’s referendum for its vagueness, this word now reappears in terms like “consider,” “explore,” and “work toward”. These reflect intentions, not guarantees, leaving promises open to delay and inaction.
Placing disabled people in the chapter headed “Caring Society” reinforces outdated stereotypes of dependency. Promises like personal assistance, accessible transport, and safeguarding measures lack binding guarantees or timelines, making them meaningless without action.
Dividing services based on age is particularly harmful, forcing disabled people over 65 into elder care, where they often lose essential supports. Services should meet needs, not be decided by age, to ensure independence and dignity.
What’s needed is action, not words. A rights-based framework with binding legislation and clear accountability is essential for equality and independence for disabled and older people. – Yours, etc,
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Dr MARGARET KENNEDY,
MICHAEL O’DOWD,
MARCIA DUANE,
Equality Not Care,
Greystones,
Co Wicklow.
