Disability Federation of Ireland Newsletter April 2007

Issued on April 1 2007

General Election 2007

DFI recently launched 'A Lot Planned, All To Do', DFI Programme for Government (2007 - 2012) at a gathering of Oireachteas members, political parties and member organisations. In addition to the event, DFI met with spokespersons from each of the Parties to encourage them to put our issues into their Election Manifestos. DFI's Support Officers are also involved in many events at local level.

There are just eight weeks approximately to the Election. It is up to each organisation to do what they can to raise the profile of disability issues among the candidates and the electorate. A lot of promises and commitments have been made by the outgoing Government with regard to the reshaping of Irish society for people with disabilities. 'A Lot Planned, All To Do' seeks action on those commitments in very real and practical ways which will affect the lives of people with disabilities.

We are not wishing to become part of the current 'auction politics' scenario but we do want firm decisions and timelines on all that has been promised. To signal commitment to deliver the NDS, we want the next Estimates and Budget to introduce a Cost of Disability Payment and comprehensively address under funding of existing services by voluntary disability organisations

From now until Election Day there will be a lot of 'election noise' going on. All of the different interest groups will be looking for their commitments. We need to keep disability live and in the mind of the candidates and the electorate. Remember the disability issue is not dealt with, what is dealt with is the planning. We need to focus hard on what needs to be done, now the NDS will be delivered.

'A Lot Planned, All To Do', DFI Programme for Government (2007 - 2012) seeks:

"That the next Government, will commence progressive implementation of the Cost of Disability payment".

"That the next Government, will adequately resource current service delivery by voluntary disability organisations".

"That the next Government, will identify for each year of the programme for government the objectives and outcomes for the National Disability Strategy, having regard to the vision and long term goals for people with disabilities as set out in 'Towards 2016'."

It is vital to keep disability in the minds of the candidates and Parties at local level - please do whatever you can. At national level we will be keeping the pressure up in every way we can throughout the election campaign, during the period of the formation of the government and beyond.

John Dolan
CEO

To request printed copies of the DFI Programme for Government (2007-2012), 'A Lot Planned - All To Do' , contact the Dublin DFI Office

DFI Seminar - 'Chairpersons as Effective Leaders'

Date: 15th May 2007
Time: 1.00p.m. - 4.30p.m.
Venue: Ashling Hotel, Parkgate Street, Dublin 8.
Cost: €35 per person (Non-Members)
€25 per person (Members)
The venue is fully accessible.

The Chairpersons as Effective Leaders project is an initiative of DFI. The project was set up to ascertain the training and developmental needs of chairpersons of DFI affiliated organisations.

DFI has carried out research into the experiences of chairpersons of member organisations through a combination of detailed questionnaires and personal interviews. The research makes recommendations in relation and to governance and organisational development of voluntary disability organisations. These recommendations will be the focus of the seminar.

To confirm your attendance please contact:
Mary Redmond
Tel: 01-454 7978
Fax: 01-454 7981
E-mail: maryredmond@disability-federation.ie

DFI AGM

Date: 15th May
Time: 5.30p.m.
Venue: Ashling Hotel, Parkgate Street, Dublin 8.

To confirm your attendance please contact:
Mary Redmond
Tel: 01-454 7978
Fax: 01-454 7981
E-mail: maryredmond@disability-federation.ie

DFI Regional Election Activities

Please contact the relevant Support Officer for details. Their contact details are on the back page of the Newsletter. Other events are being organised, please contact your local SO for details.

Date: Friday, 20th April 2007
Time: 11.00 am - 1.00 pm
Venue: Clarion Hotel, Clarion Road, Ballinode, Sligo
The format of this will be a Q & A Session. In order to achieve this type of format, questions are required beforehand.
Contact: Marcus Hufsky.

Date: Friday, 27th April 2007
Time: 11.00 am - 1.00 pm
Venue: Clanree Hotel, Derry Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
The format of this will be a Q & A Session with candidates for the General Election. In order to achieve this type of format, questions are required beforehand.
Contact: Marcus Hufsky.

Date: Monday, 16th April 2007
Time: 5.00 pm - 7.00 pm
Venue: Clarion Hotel, Cork City.
The event is in association with PwDI. The format of this will be a Q & A Session. In order to achieve this type of format, questions are required beforehand.
Contact: Alison Ryan (Cork)

Citizens Information Board / DFI Study

Citizens Information Board (Formerly Comhairle ) and DFI have undertaken a joint study on the housing and accommodation needs of people with disabilities. As part of this research a number of focus groups were organised, targeting both organisations and people with disabilities. These focus groups were run both in urban and rural locations to ensure that a broad range of experiences and needs were identified.

The objective of these focus groups was to:

  • Provide an opportunity for focused consultation with selected stakeholders;
  • Ascertain the views of people with disabilities and the organisation that work with them on how their accommodation needs are being met;
  • Ascertain the views of participants on the adequacy of supports necessary for independent living;
  • Identify potential areas for change for inclusion in the report.

Following the analysis of data generated through these focus groups interviews will be arranged with key individuals and groups to facilitate the development of useful case study material.

In light of the commitment in 'Towards 2016' to develop a housing strategy for People with Disabilities, this is a very important piece of research. On completion this report will offer clear insight into the housing needs of people with disabilities; the challenges they face in securing adequate and appropriate accommodation.

If you have any queries, please contact:

Joanne McCarthy,
DFI SEO Policy and Research,
T: 01 4547978,
e-mail: joannemccarthy@disability-federation.ie

Eastern Region Platform Meeting

The first meeting of 2007 of the Eastern Region Platform took place recently just before St. Patrick's Festival, with a very high attendance, boosted by the promise of Green Tea and Pastries.

The main presentation came from Hugh Kane (HSE) who gave a presentation on the disability structure of the HSE, as well as responding to specific questions and topics which had been submitted to him in advance by DFI. These included:

  • Funding for 'Smaller Organisations';
  • Funding and Valuing of 'Soft' Services;
  • Financial Regulations / Funding Protocol;
  • National Service Level Agreement;
  • Representative Structure - Expert Advisory Groups, etc.

Hugh, who is the Local Health Office Manager (LHM) for Wicklow, has lead responsibility for disability within the HSE Dublin / Mid-Leinster region, as well as leading on several other initiatives within the HSE.

Although some of the information in Hugh's presentation was not particularly welcomed by the organisations, Hugh was very open and honest in explaining the legal and budgetary constraints that he was working under. He was also very frank in responding to the many questions from the organisations present.

This was preceded by brief presentations from Allen Dunne (DFI) on DFI's Programme for Government and Maria Fox (DFI) on the implementation of Part 2 of the Disability Act - Assessment of Needs.

If you would like any further information about this, please contact Anthony Carrick, Tel: 01 708 0105 or email: anthonycarrick@disability-federation.ie .

DSFA Disability Consultative Forum

A meeting of the DSFA (Department of Social and Family Affairs) Disability Consultative Forum took place on the 22nd of March 2007. The following issues were addressed:

  • In response to correspondence with DFI, it was reported that the Minister for Social and Family Affairs has committed to examining the issue of extending Free Travel to encompass Northern Ireland for people on Disability Allowance. Currently, pensioners are entitled to free travel within all 32 counties.
  • Cathy Barron from the Office for Social Inclusion made a presentation on the new National Action Plan for Social Inclusion (NAPS inclusion). DFI welcomed the introduction of the lifecycle approach across the revised NAPS but asked how social inclusion issues specific to people with disabilities across the key stages would be monitored. Ms. Barron noted this as an issue that requires consideration by the office for Social Inclusion.
  • It was noted that research being conducted by Pat McDonnell, DSFA, to examine the impact of DA on the retention rates in second level education is on-going.
  • The Government is continuing with the transfer of disability welfare payments from DOH to DSFA. It was reported that industrial relations issues have been slowing this process.

Children as Carers Research Study Seminar

New research entitled 'Hidden Young Carers in Cork' was presented at a Seminar organised by the Combat Poverty Agency (CPA) on the 28th March 2007. The research, undertaken by University College Cork and funded by the CPA, aimed to provide an initial qualitative insight into the experiences of hidden young carers, and to assess the extent of awareness among services providers. A total of nine young carers were interviewed and of these, five began caring before the age of ten. Further to this, the young participants reported educational disadvantage and financial impoverishment as a result of their caring duties. There was a general consensus that the existence of young carers is largely unacknowledged by service providers and their needs go unrecognised within policy and support services for carers in general. More information on this research is available from the Combat Poverty Agency ( www.cpa.ie ).

Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities - Introduction of Scheme to Replacing the DPG.

The Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government (DoEHLG) statement on housing policy 'Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities' introduced three revised Schemes, to be rolled out in May / June 2007.

1. Mobility Aids Grant Scheme - New Scheme

This new Scheme is to cover works aimed at addressing mobility problems, mainly, but not solely aimed at the elderly.

  • Maximum grant of €6,000 to cover 100% of the cost of works.
  • It will not require an OT assessment; a GP's letter will be enough. They estimate that a majority of people with disabilities will apply for this.

2. Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability - Replacing the Disabled Persons Housing Grant (DPG) Scheme

  • Increase grant from €20,320 to maximum of €30,000.
  • Can cover up to 95% of the cost of works.
  • Available to those with an annual household income of less than €30,000, tapering to 30% for those with annual household incomes of €54,000 to €65,000.
  • Introduces a graduated 'claw-back' system on grants received for provision of an extension where the house is sold within a 5 year period - 95% of the grant to be repayable if sold after 1 year, up to 20% repayable in year 5.
  • Guidance will be put in place to inform Local Authorities to ensure uniformity.
  • There will be disregards to means testing on a case by case basis.
  • The new Housing Miscellaneous Needs Bill will provide for an appeals mechanism to be established.

The Housing Adaptation Grant for new Houses for People with a Disability remains the same, with an increase from the current maximum €12,700 to a maximum of €14,500 in each individual case.

3. Housing Aid for Older People - Replacement to the Essential Repairs Grant (ERG) & Special Scheme of Housing Aid for the Elderly.

  • Aim to make homes of older people habitable.
  • Maximum grant of €10,500 to cover 100% of the cost of works.
  • Available to those with an annual household income of less than €30,000, tapering to 30% for those with annual household incomes of €54,000 to €65,000.

Local Authorities will be allowed recoup the cost of up to 80% of all these grants. Each year the grant levels will be increased in line with the building cost index.

If your organisation has any comments to make on this new scheme please contact Lillian Buchanan at the Dublin DFI office.

Charities Bill 2007

Noel Ahern, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs with Noel Ahern, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs with responsibility for charities legislation, is pleased to announce that the Government has approved the publication of the Charities Bill 2007.

Key aspects of the Bill will provide for:

  • a definition of "charitable purpose" for the first time in primary legislation;
  • a new independent Charities Regulatory Authority to secure compliance by charities with their legal obligations and also to encourage better administration;
  • a Register of Charities in which all charities operating in the State must register;
  • annual activity reports by charities to the new Authority;
  • updating the law relating to fundraising, particularly in relation to collections by way of direct debits and similar non-cash methods;
  • consultative panels to assist the Authority in its work and to ensure effective consultation with stakeholders;
  • a Charity Appeals Tribunal to enable charities to appeal decisions of the Authority without the need to use the courts system; and
  • administrative co-operation by the Authority with statutory bodies on relevant regulatory and law enforcement matters, both inside and outside the State.

For further information please contact Joan O'Donnell, mobile: 086 3834587, or email joanodonnell@disability-federation.ie

New €30 Million from Dormant Accounts Funding

Noel Ahern, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and Éamon Ó Cuív TD Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, on 16th March, announced that the Government has approved the categories and measures under which €30 million from Dormant Accounts will be allocated in 2007.

The categories and measures approved by the Government for support prioritise areas designated by Government, as most disadvantaged i.e. RAPID, CLÁR and Local Drugs Task Force areas as well as augmenting supports to those with disabilities.

The funding for these measures will be available to programmes and projects which tackle social, economic and educational disadvantage and which support persons with disabilities.

In relation to this category, the Government decided that allocations in 2007 would support the same measures that operated in 2006. Applications were invited from organisations providing services to persons with a disability in the last quarter of 2006 and by the closing date in December 2006, over 250 had been received. These applications are currently being processed and it is anticipated that recommendations will be submitted to Government for approval shortly.

The Minister has indicated that he will invite applications for the economic and social disadvantage category from April 2007.

Read the full press release on the Pobail website - www.pobail.ie .

MS Ireland National Election Campaign - April & May 2007

MS Ireland's election campaign highlights the concerns of the MS Community. MS Ireland's National Campaign, 'Quiz an Election Candidate' is based on the following eight issues:

  • An increase in the number of neurologists and associated multi-disciplinary teams to be brought to the recommended EU level of 39, within a three year timeframe commencing in 2007
  • The provision of the required staff and facilities for the delivery of approved treatments on an equitable basis throughout the country
  • The introduction of a cost of disability payment of €40 per week for all people with MS
  • Further significant increases in the disabled person's housing grant and higher means test threshold
  • The issuing of a medical card to every person diagnosed with MS
  • The assurance that the necessary physiotherapy services are made available to people with MS on an equitable basis throughout the country
  • A review of the current criteria for drivers' tax concessions, so that anyone diagnosed with MS automatically becomes eligible for these rebates
  • Additional personal assistants who can enable people with MS and their families to participate in the community

For more information please contact MS Ireland, Tel: 01 678 1600, Fax: 01 678 1601, Email: info@ms-society.ie .

The European Year in Ireland

2007 has been designated as 'European Year of Equal Opportunities for All', by decision of the EU council and European parliament as part of a concerted effort to promote equality and non-discrimination in the EU. The European Year is the centrepiece of a framework strategy designed to ensue that discrimination is celebrated and equal opportunities for all are promoted.

The Equality Authority is the national implementing body for the Year in Ireland and has launched the 'Play Your Part' document as a national strategy for the Year. The document sets out the four objectives (rights, representation, recognition and respect) that have been established for the Year.
For further information please contact:

The Equality Authority, 2 Clonmel Street, Dublin 2.
Public Information Centre: Locall: 1890 245 545, Telephone: 01 4173333,
Business Queries: 01 4173336, Text Phone :01 4173385, Fax: 01 4173331, Email: info@equality.ie

Lámhleabhar leighis

A compilation of medical phrases in Irish to help doctors and nurses to communicate with native speakers has been launched in the HSE West Area. The English-Irish phrasebook for medical personnel, 'Leaganacha Leighis' , was researched and written by Dr. Nicola de Faoite.

Copies of the phrase book for medical staff are available from the Regional Health Office, Health Service Executive West, Merlin Park, Galway, Tel: 091 775882.

Facilities for Voters with Disabilities

There are a variety of arrangements in place to assist those with certain disabilities in Ireland to exercise their voting rights.

  • vote at an alternative polling station if the local station is inaccessible;
  • be helped to vote at the polling station by a companion or the presiding officer;
  • vote by post;
  • vote at a hospital, nursing home or similar institution if you live there.

For further information www.citizensinformation.ie

Organisations' Employment Equality and Equal Status Policy Grant

Date: Saturday, 30th June 2007 is the European Year of Equal Opportunities. Grants are available to provide up to 5 days of consultation for the review of an organisation's current equal status or employment equality policy (if one is in place), and to develop a new policy or training programme.

Telephone or Text: 087-660-4889, Email: consultants@vialeone.com
Address: Vialeone, LLP, 186 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8EE

UN Day: Public Awareness Funding

Combat Poverty Agency is providing once-off funding to allow anti-poverty groups or organisations undertook work at local or national level to promote awareness of 17th October, UN International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This initiative is open to anti-poverty organisations and groups working with people experiencing poverty at national and local level.

The activity MUST take place on or around 17th October, 2007.

The deadline for applications is 13th April 2007. Late applications will not be considered.

Application forms can be obtained from Nadine Cooney, Combat Poverty Agency, Tel: 01 6026616, email: nadine.cooney@combatpoverty.ie . Applicants are encouraged to return their completed forms electronically.

For further information or advice on applications contact: Bevin Cody, Communications and Public Affairs Section, Combat Poverty Agency, Tel: 01 6026611, email: bevin.cody@combatpoverty.ie .

Changing Times / Challenging Times

A national Conference for the Community & Voluntary Sector in Ireland.

Date: Wednesday, May 2nd
Time: 9.00 am - 4.30 pm
Venue: Croke Park, Croke Park Conference Centre, Dublin 3

With a general election and charity-regulation in the offing, 2007 is a big year for the community and voluntary sector in Ireland. As if these two issues were not enough, the new national agreement 'Towards 2016' and the report from the Task Force on Active Citizenship provide new developmental contexts for the sector to work in.

Check www.thewheel.ie to download a registration form. For more information please contact Danielle Byrne at The Wheel, Tel 353-1- 454 8727

Social Policy Conference

The Citizens Information Board has organised this Conference 'Social Policy: Making a Difference al Local and National Level'. It's aim is to enhance an understanding of social policy and the participant's role in the context of information, advice and advocacy services.

Date: Wednesday, May 2nd
Time: 10.00am - 4.30pm
Venue: Institute of Technology Blanchardstown, Blanchardstown Road North, Dublin 15.
Trainer: Catherine Brennan, Social Policy Executive, Citizens Information Board.
Limited to 20 participants.

For further Information Contact:
Anne Flynn, Citizens Information Board,
4 Long Walk, Dundalk Co. Louth
Tel: 042/9332913, email: anne.rlynn@ciboard.ie
or
Renee Hayes, Citizens Information Board,
Elm House, Cootehill Road, Cavan.
Tel: 049/4362533, email: renee.hayes@ciboard.ie

MA at NUI Galway

The MA in Public Advocacy and Activism at NUI Galway is an interdisciplinary programme which offers an opportunity for experienced advocates for social change to undertake structured studies in order to facilitate critical reflection and practice, and for those interested in working in the area to achieve a specialist qualification.

The date for receipt of applications for the MA in Public Advocacy and Activism for the 2007-2008 academic year is 27th April 2007.

Further information about the course, contact details, and details about application procedures may be found at www.go4th.ie/filmschool/ma_public.html or by contacting Dr Bateman Fiona, Course Co-ordinator or email: fiona.bateman@nuigalway.ie

UCD School of Psychology

The Centre for Disability Studies invites applications for a range of courses.

  • Graduate Certificate in Developmental Disability Studies (1 Year)
  • Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation Studies (1 Year)
  • MSc Developmental Disabilities (Taught)
  • MSc Rehabilitation Studies (Taught)

The closing date is 20th April 2007 for the Academic year 2007 - 2008.
For further information please contact:

Centre for Disability Studies, D 004, Newman Building, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4.
E-mail: cds@ucd.ie Tel (01) 7168333/8398 www.ucd.ie/include/

The Right to Vote Workshop

In the build up to this year's General Election, Inclusion Ireland will be running workshops on the Right to Vote for People with an Intellectual Disability. Information packs on the day will include the Easy to Read booklet on the Right to Vote. Participants will learn about political parties, elections and voting. The Workshops are free and are limited to 20 people per Workshop. A light lunch will be provided on the day.

Dates: Wednesday, April 25th 11am - 2pm
Thursday, May 3rd 11am - 2pm
Venue: Inclusion Ireland, Unit C2, The Steelworks, Foley Street, Dublin 1
To register your interest contact, Sarah Lennon, Inclusion Ireland, Tel:01 8559891 or email sarah@inclusonireland.ie

CIB Training Calendar

The Citizens Information Board (CIB) has launched it's 2007 national calendar of training events, March to June 2007.

The national calendar consists of 50 training courses, combining 5 regional programmes and a central programme. Courses range from a half day-two days in duration with a further calendar being launched in the autumn to cover the period September to December 2007.

For more information contact:
Michael O'Brien
Training and Development Service
Citizens Information Board
Hume House
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Tel: (01) 6059000, Fax: (01) 6059099.

Care Alliance Ireland Annual Conference

Care Alliance Ireland is holding it's Annual Conference on Key Issues in Family Caring - Carer Assessments Carers' Health.

Venue: Park Inn, Smithfield, Dublin 7
Date: Wednesday 9th May 2007
Time: 10am - 4:30pm

For more information contact:

The conference administrator
e-mail: ndo@carealliance.ie or Tel: (01) 874 7776 or 087 207 3265,
Care Alliance Ireland, Coleraine House, Coleraine Street, Dublin 7, web: www.carealliance.ie

YOGA - For people with physical disabilities

Date: Every Thursday from April 19th
Time: 4:30 to 5:30
Cost: €60

The Sanctuary are running a YOGA course for people with disabilities for six weeks. Facilitated by Cormac Lennon.

'Yoga for people with physical disabilities' is a six-week programme suited to those who live with a variety of physical disabilities. The six-week programme will gently encourage participants to create a new relationship to their bodies, in a spiritual as well as physical way. Such exploration through the medium of gentle yoga exercises will be creative and reflective, with time taken to include all levels of ability in the group. Each week participants will be introduced to some simple practices that they may find helpful in between sessions and beyond.

For further details please contact :The Sanctuary, Stanhope Street, Dublin 7, Tel: 01-6705419, email: enquiries@sanctuary.ie

Age Action North Dublin Conference

"Empowering Older People", Best Practice in North Dublin

Date: Wednesday, April 25th 2007
Time: 11.30 - 16.00
Venue: Regency Airport Hotel, Whitehall, Dublin 9

Age Action North Dublin in association with the HSE North Dublin is hosting the Conference to showcase some of the different initiatives that are taking place for older people in North Dublin. The initiatives that are featured will focus on the empowerment of older people and the partnership of the HSE between voluntary and community groups.

For further information please contact:

Suki Garvey, Conference Administrator, Age Action Ireland, 30/31 Lower Camden St, Dublin 2,
email: suki.garvey@ageaction.ie
Fax: 01 4756011, Tel: 01 4756989

Multiple Sclerosis Information

Date: Saturday, May 5th 2007
Venue: Main Hall, RDS, Dublin 4
Time: 10am - 6pm
Cost: Free

MS Living will be the biggest event ever held in Ireland for people living with or interested in Multiple Sclerosis. The day will be an exciting mix of information and conversation, with lots of opportunities to ask questions, pick up quality information and chat to other people.

For further information please Call Save 1850 650 950 or Web: www.ms-society.ie

Lucena Foundation Information Sessions

The Lucena Foundation is a service of the St John of God Order, are running the following events for parents:

  • May 22nd:
    • Information Session for Parents & Carers of Children & Adolescents suffering with Depression.
    • Speaker: Dr. Michael Sweeney, PhD, Columbia University, New York, USA
  • June 14th:
    • Information Session for Parents & Carers of Children with High Functioning Autism / Aspergers Syndrome
    • Speaker: Dr. Vicky Slonims, Lead Clinical Speech & Language Therapist, Guy's Hospital, London.

For further information contact:

Marie C. McCourt, Project Officer, The Lucena Foundation.
Tel: 01-4999349 or 01-4923596, Email: marie.mccourt@sjog.ie

Community Sector Employers' Resource Bureau

The Dublin Employment Pact & Equal at work is hosting a launch for the 'Community Sector Employers' Resource Bureau'.

Date: Tuesday, April 17th 2007
Time: 10am-1pm.
Venue: Croke Park Conference Centre

Information in the downloadable PDF below:

www.dublinpact.ie/pdfs/invite.pdf or contact Craigie Communications Tel: 01 410 0994 or vcraigie@eircom.net

Information & Education events for ABI

The Peter Bradley Foundation and Brí are continuing their series of events across the country about acquired brain injury.

The upcoming events are:

  • May 16th - Muckross Park Hotel, Killarney
  • June 27th - Trim Castle, Co. Meath
  • August - 22nd Cork Radisson SAS Hotel
  • October 10th - Sligo Radisson SAS Hotel
  • November 27th & 28th - Radisson SAS Royal Hotel, Dublin.

For further information on these events please contact Karen Cahill on 01-280 4164; 086 3868851; e-mail: kcahill@peterbradleyfoundation.ie or contact Joe / Geraldine at Brí on 01-2355501.

Cost: Healthcare professionals and allied professional fee is €65. There is no charge for people affected by acquired brain injury.

IWA Annual Conference and AGM

Date: Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th May, 2007
Venue: The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Dublin 9

Irish Wheelchair Association's Annual Conference and the Annual General Meeting of IWA Limited will take place on Saturday and Sunday 19th and 20th May 2007 in The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Dublin 9.

The theme for the 2007 Conference is 'Employment - Creating Opportunities'.

For further information please contact the IWA, Tel: 01 8186 400, Fax: 01 8333 873, Email: info@iwa.ie , Web: www.iwa.ie .

D10 Disability Awareness Group

D10 Disability Awareness Group are holding a disability information event. The line up will include an information piece from the Disability Federation of Ireland on current disability legislation both national and European, and a talk from the disability advocacy worker for the Citizens Information Center. There will also be an opportunity to discuss the needs of the disabled community living in Ballyfermot. All are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be provided.

Date: 26th April
Time: 12.00pm - 2.00pm
Venue: Ballyfermot Community Civic Centre, Ballyfermot Road.

To confirm your attendance please contact Betty or Rosemary on 01-6207165 or further information ask for Ciara Hoey Community Development Co-Ordinator.

National Gallery of Ireland Tour for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The National Gallery of Ireland is presenting 'Highlights of the Collection' with Catherine Neylon. The tour guide listening system will be available for use.

Date: 26th April 2007
Time: 6.30pm
Venue: Meet in the Shaw room.

The tour is free of charge and no booking is necessary. For further information please contact the Education Department, Fax: 01 661 0099, Tel: 01 663 3510, Email: cmarrian@ngo.ie

'My Life My Story' Workshop

The National Institute for Intellectual Disability with Trinity College Extramural Courses are holding a workshop. The workshop will explore how the stories of people with intellectual disabilities can add to understanding of individuals and their lives, be a way of people's history being known to those around them and help them to take action on issues that affect their lives. This workshop is an opportunity to find out more about how to do life story work and to use it effectively.

Date: Friday April 27, 2007
Time: 10 am - 4 pm
(Lunch will be served)
Venue: NIID, 4th Floor, 3 College Green, Dublin 2
(Entrance on Dame Street beside Starbucks Café)
Cost: €50 for support workers - €20 for unwaged

For further information please contact akenned@tcd.ie or
Phone 01 896 3885 by: Monday April 23, 2007

For information please contact the relevant organisation directly.

Ability - Newsletter of the Irish Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, Tel: 01 4572329, Email: info@iasbah.ie

Arthritis Ireland - Newsletter—Tel: 01 661 8188
Email: info@arthritisireland.ie

Aspire - Asperger Syndrome Association of Ireland. 01-8780027/9, Email: admin@aspire-irl.org

Asthma Society News - Tel: 01-8788511,
Email: office@asthmasociety.ie

Brainstorm - Migraine Association of Ireland, Tel: 01-8064121, Email: info@migraine.ie

Brainwave - Quarterly Newsletter, Tel: 01 4557500,
Email: info@epilepsy.ie

Clar na nÓg - National Youth Council of Ireland Tel: 01-4784122
Email: info@nyci.ie

Cleft Lip and Palate Association of Ireland - www.cleft.ie/newsletter , Tel: (01) 2848227,
Email: georginawade@cleft.ie

Care Alliance Ireland - Email: ndo@carealliance.ie

Community Exchange Newsletter, Email: info@activelink.ie , Tel: +1 667 7326

Connect - Irish Motor Neuron Disease Association. Email: info@imnda.ie , Freefone 1800 403 403

Community Workers' Co-operative - Community Work News.
Email: info@cwc.ie , Tel: +353 (0) 91 779 030

Cornerstone - Homeless Agency - www.homelessagency.ie/research/cornerstone.asp , Tel: 01 7036100 , Email: homeless@dublincity.ie

Cumhacht - People with Disabilities in Ireland www.pwdi.ie/news_events/newsletter , Email: info@pwdi.ie , Tel: 01-8721744

Debra Ireland Newsletter, Tel: 01 678 5044, Email: info@debraireland.org

Down Syndrome Ireland - Tel: 01-8730999, Email: info@downsyndrome.ie

Enable Ireland - Newsletter—Tel: 1850 204 304 Email:
communications@enableireland.ie

Equality News - Tel: 01-4173333, Email:: info@equality.ie

E-Info Deaf Source— Email:: info@irishdeafsociety.ie . Tel: +353 1860 1878

Féach - Support to parents of blind and visually impaired children. Tel: 01 493 1896, Email:: info@feach.ie

Fighting Blindness - Tel: 01 7093050, Email: avril.daly@fightingblindness.ie

Frontline of Learning Disability -Tel: 01-2862649. Email: frontline@indigo.ie

GROWing - Information on Mental Health, Tel: 1890 474 474,
Email: info@grow.ie

Guidelines - Irish Guide Dogs Association. Tel: 021 4878200 Email: info@guidedogs.ie

Headway Ireland - National Association for Acquired Brain Injury -'Making Headway', Tel: 01-8102066, Email: info@headway.ie

Heart News: - Newsletter of Irish Heart Foundation. Tel: 01 668 5001
Email:: info@irishheart.ie

Heartstrings - Newsletter of Heart Children Ireland, published quarterly,
Tel: 1850 217017 Email: heart children@eircom.net

Heatwave - Irish Raynauds Scleroderma Society,
Email: info@irishraynauds.com , Tel: 01 2020184

HOPE - Huntington's Disease Association of Ireland. Tel: 01-872 1303, Email: hdai@indigo.ie

Inclusion Ireland - Tel: 01 8559891, Email: info@inclusionireland.ie

Irish Deaf News - Irish Deaf Society. Minicom: 01-8601910; 01-8601878; Email: info@irishdeafsociety.ie

Irish Wheelchair Association - 'Spokeout' , Tel: 01-8186 400, Email: Joanna.marsden@iwa.ie

Kerry Network of People with Disabilities - Network News 066-7180611, Email: kerrypwdi@eircom.net

MS News—Newsletter of MS Ireland. Tel: 01 6781600,
Email: info@ms-society.ie

Muscular Dystrophy Ireland - MDI News Update Tel: 01-8721501, Email: info@mdi.ie

National Association for Deaf People - Link Magazine - Tel: 01 8723800, Email: nad@iol.ie , Minicom: (01) 817 5777

NCBI News - Newsletter of the National Council for the Blind of Ireland, Tel: 01 8307033, Email:: press@ncbi.ie , www.ncbi.ie

Neuro News - Neurofibromatosis Association of Ireland, Tel: 01-8726338, Email: nfaireland@eircom.net

People First - Central Remedial Clinic Tel: 01-8057400
Email: vmmcutch@crc.ie

Post Polio Support Group - Newsletter, Tel: 071 64791
Email: newsletter@ppsg.ie

Poverty Today - Combat Poverty Agency. Tel:01-670 6746

Rehab News -Tel: 01-2057200 Email: dara.duffy@rehab.ie

Simon News - Simon Community, Tel: 01-6711606
Email: info@simoncommunity.com

SI News - Schizophrenia Ireland, Tel: (0)1 8601620
Email: info@sirl.ie

Social Housing - Irish Council for Social Housing Tel: 01-6618334; Email: info@icsh.ie

Speaking up for Advocacy - Comhairle Newsletter on advocacy. Tel: 01 6059035, Email: mairide.woods@comhairle.ie or davin.roche@comhairle.ie

Volunteer Stroke Scheme News- Tel: 01-4559036.
Email:: info@strokescheme.ie

Wheel E-Bulletin Tel:01- 454 8727,
Email: info@wheel.ie

Newsletter Information

The DFI newsletter is now available on our website:
Newsletters

It is offered in Microsoft Word, Adobe PDF and AAA accessible HTML format. If you continue to require a printed copy please contact the DFI Office.

Please send Newsletter submissions to: newsletter@disability-federation.ie

DFI Support Officer Contact Details

DFI, Fumbally Court,
Fumbally Lane, Dublin 8
Tel: 01 454 7978
Fax: 01 494 7981
E: info@disability-federation.ie

Anthony Carrick
Mobile: 086 8206736
E: anthonycarrick@disability-federation.ie

Alison Ryan, Tel: 021 4271752
Mobile: 086 3816323
E: a.ryan@disability-federation.ie

Joan O'Donnell
Mobile: 086 3834587
E: joanodonnell@disability-federation.ie

Lillian Buchanan
Dublin Office
lillianbuchanan@disability-federation.ie

Louise McCann
Mobile: 086 9189750
E: louisemccann@disability-federation.ie

Marcus Hufsky,
Tel: 071 9144614,
Mobile: 086 3811261,
E: marcushufsky@disability-federation.ie

Maria Fox
Tel: 057 9328632
Mobile: 086 3882600
Fax: 057 9328607
E: mariafox@disability-federation.ie

Martin Naughton
Mobile: 086 8207196
E: martinnaughton@disability-federation.ie

Michael Corbett
Tel: 098 41919,
Mobile: 086 3804750,
Fax: 098 41065,
E: michaelcorbett@disability-federation.ie

P.J. Cleere,
Tel: 059 9158111
Mobile: 086 3811064
E: pjcleere@disability-federation.ie

Toni Gleeson,
Mobile: 086 6004526
E: tonigleeson@disability-federation.ie