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Dr. Charles O’Mahony, School of Law, University of Galway, has co-authored a significant new report for the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI), highlighting the persistent gaps in disability inclusion at the local government level in Ireland.  The report, Bridging the Gap Between National Policy and Local Action for Disability Inclusion, was co-authored with Dr. Mary Keogh and launched last month at the offices of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission in Dublin.

The research examines the disconnect between Ireland’s national commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and the reality faced by disabled people at the local level.  It finds that despite policy advancements, including the recent ratification of the UNCRPD and its Optional Protocol, local authorities remain under-resourced and inconsistently equipped to implement disability-inclusive policies.

“Ireland is one of the most centralised countries in Europe, and local authorities here are among the lowest-funded in the OECD,” said Dr. O’Mahony. “This centralisation often sidelines disability rights at the local level, meaning that despite legal obligations, many disabled people continue to face barriers in housing, transport, public spaces, and community services.”

The report underscores the crucial role of local authorities in fulfilling disability rights obligations, yet it identifies a lack of structured coordination and funding to support meaningful implementation.  While some local authorities have made progress, there is inconsistent progress across the 31 local authorities.

One key finding is the need for properly resourced and full-time Access Officers in every local authority.  Currently, many Access Officers work part-time and lack clear job descriptions, dedicated budgets, and training, limiting their ability to effect real change.  The report calls for expanding and formalising the role of Access Officers, ensuring they have the authority and resources to integrate disability inclusion across all local government policies.

The research also highlights successful models, such as the Disability and Inclusion Steering Committee (DISC) in Wicklow County Council, which has a strategic role in advising on disability policy.  The report recommends replicating such initiatives nationwide to embed disability inclusion as a core function of local government.

The launch event on the 28^th. Of January in Dublin brought together local government officials, policymakers, researchers, and disability advocates to discuss the findings and chart a path forward for implementing the UNCRPD at a local level.

The report concludes that national implementation of the UN CRPD must be matched with tangible action at the local level.  It calls for increased government funding for local authorities, linked to clear disability inclusion targets, and mandatory training to ensure obligations under the UNCRPD translate into real-world improvements for disabled people.

Dr. O’Mahony emphasised the importance of taking a whole-of-government approach: “Disability inclusion should not be seen as an add-on but as an integral part of how local authorities operate.  Without dedicated resources and accountability measures, the commitments made at the national level will continue to fall short on the ground.”

For more information, the summary report and full report are available online – https://www.disability-federation.ie/news/latest/2025/02/04/bridging-the-gap-between-national-policy-and-local/