Press release
Indecon International Consultants commissioned to carry out Cost of Disability Research
From Department of Social Protection
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Social Protection
Published on
Last updated on
The Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Regina Doherty, T.D., has announced today that Indecon International Consultants has been commissioned by her Department to carry out research into the cost of disability in Ireland. This follows a commitment made by Minister Doherty when she announced the social welfare measures in Budget 2019.
It is recognised nationally and internationally that people with disabilities may incur many extra living costs as a result of their disability such as: additional heating, disability aids and equipment, drugs and other medical costs, care costs and transport costs.
The research will address the following questions:
It is envisaged that the research will provide quantitative estimates of the cost of disability using a number of approaches (‘mixed-method’) including data based on the direct experience of people with disabilities. Minister Doherty said:
“This is an important and much-needed piece of research and, when complete, will inform policy direction in the future – from a whole-of-Government perspective – in relation needs of people with disabilities.”
“This is a complex area. The range of people with disabilities runs from those who are profoundly disabled to those who suffer with a condition, which although restrictive, is not an impediment to work and employment. I am keen to address the concerns raised by the people who live with the daily reality of disability and will use the outcome of the study to inform potential measures to address this issue of cost.”
Speaking today, Minister of State with responsibility for Disabilities, Finian McGrath, T.D., said:
"I am delighted to see that the research into the cost of disability, as we announced in Budget 2019, is underway. As Minister for Disabilities, I meet people with varying disabilities on a daily basis who describe not only how they cope with their disability but also, all too often, the financial implications which their disability places in their lives. I welcome this research as another example of the way I believe that we can plan and reform our disability services by putting the person with the disability front and central in our thinking and planning."
ENDS