DFI Disappointed at Response to Recent Aras Attracta Inspections

Dublin, 1 April 2015

The Disability Federation of Ireland is disappointed with the response to the issues which emerged in the recent Aras Attracta inspections.

Allen Dunne, Deputy CEO of DFI stated “It is extremely disappointing and disturbing to read of the continued lack of appropriate care and support for the residents of Aras Attractra. It is apparent from the Reports that in addition to core health and safety issues the residents are continuing to be treated with a lack of basic respect and dignity.”

“We are aware that efforts are being made by the HSE to improve the situation but the reports highlight the distance that has yet to be travelled in improving the living situation for the residents. A huge immediate effort is still needed to bring the centre up to an acceptable standard of safety and care”

“We believe that the ongoing compliance failures in care homes around this country are symptomatic of a wider lack to commitment to the rights of people with disabilities in Government policy. Eight years ago on March 30th, 2007, Ireland signed but did not ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (CRPD). Since then, the CRPD has been ratified by 156 countries.”

“Article 1 of the CRPD states: ‘The purpose of the present convention is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity’. Ratifying the UNCRPD is just one part of a change in culture and attitudes towards people with disabilities in this country. Government must now show leadership and ratify the CRPD sending the message out to all that the basics rights of people with disabilities are valued and protected”

Allen concluded that “DFI believes that we must immediately improve the living situation for those living in Aras Attracta, and we must work towards improving the rights of all people with disabilities by ratifying the UNCRPD.”

For further information please contact

Allen Dunne, Deputy CEO 086 850 2112

Joanne McCarthy, Senior Executive Officer 086 0440 178

Philippa Brennan, Communications Assistant 01 7080 103