Donegal Centre for Independent Living calls on employers to commit to inclusive hiring

Congratulations to the Donegal Centre for Independent Living (DCIL), who launched their “Put Us To Work” campaign in partnership with Donegal County Council. The campaign calls on employers across Donegal to take real action on disability inclusion in the workplace by challenging outdated assumptions about disability and employment and highlighting the urgent need for change. Despite progress in many areas of Irish life, thousands of disabled people in Donegal remain excluded from the workforce.

Nationally, just 32.6% of disabled people are in employment, almost 20% below the EU average. In Donegal, the figures are even lower, at 28.9%.

“Too often, people with disabilities are underestimated or overlooked when it comes to employment,” said Rosaleen Doherty, CEO of DCIL.

“What they lack is not ability, it’s opportunity. The ‘Put Us To Work’ campaign exists to challenge assumptions and call on Donegal employers to see talent where it’s always been, in our disabled community.”

The campaign encourages employers to:

• Champion inclusive hiring and actively consider disabled candidates for roles at all levels
• Provide accessible workplaces and support systems
• Challenge stigma within workplace culture
• Move from awareness to action.

Cathaoirleach Paul Canning, who attended the launch, praised the initiative:

“This campaign marks a powerful step forward in our shared commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity. The confidence, professionalism, and passion of the individuals leading this campaign show us all what true leadership looks like.”

Trudi O’Reilly, Access Officer with Donegal County Council, added:

“It has been a privilege to work with such a driven and inspiring team at DCIL. Their determination has been at the heart of this initiative, and we’re grateful for the Councillors’ support in bringing it to life.”

At the heart of “Put Us To Work” are the voices and experiences of disabled people in Donegal.

Laura Sweeney, a DCIL service user and campaign participant, shared:

“I don’t need pity; I need an equal chance. I’ve got the skills and drive to work, what I’m missing is opportunity. The ‘Put Us To Work’ campaign is proof that we’re ready. Now we need employers to be ready too.”

“Put Us To Work” is more than a message — it’s a movement. Together, DCIL and Donegal County Council are showing what inclusion looks like in action, and calling on employers across the county to open their doors, reimagine their workplaces, and help lead Ireland forward.