Budget a setback for disabled people, says Federation

The DFI said one in five people unable to work due to disability live in consistent poverty

The Disability Federation of Ireland has said that while it welcomes the €619m increase in funding for disability services, the Budget overall represents a devastating setback for disabled people unable to work.

In a statement, DFI acknowledged that the new funding will strengthen services, including additional investment in residential and day supports, respite provision, assessments of need for children and extra hours for home support and personal assistance. The organisation also recognised the progress on pay parity for staff working in the sector, describing it as important and overdue.

However, it said that the majority of disabled people in Ireland do not access those services and will see little benefit from the additional investment.

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