National Protest

As fellow members of the Community and Voluntary Pillar we support Disability Federation Ireland in their efforts.

Dear colleagues,  Over the last few months, DFI have been working hard to highlight the reality of the “Cost of Disability” We have joined with others to call for a €400 Emergency Disability Payment to replace what was taken away from disabled people in Budget 2026.  We have presented the data. We’ve stood outside Leinster House. We have written the submissions. We have met with the Ministers.  And while we seem to have won the public argument, the government response has been to double down and refuse to acknowledge the financial challenge that many people with disability find themselves facing.  That’s why, on Saturday 28 February, we are supporting disabled people to have their voices heard. We are working to with our partners at IWA and Access for All to make sure that the Government cannot disregard the lived experience of people with disabilities.   These demonstrations are the result of the hard work and determination of our community, our partners, and disabled people across the country. It’s important to mobilise as many as possible to make sure our demands are heard.  The Government has asked disabled people to wait until 2027 for a permanent solution. But as we know, poverty does not pause. With utility arrears rising and inflation biting, the “gap” they have created is dangerous.  Support the campaign  We have created a very simple form (it takes 30 seconds) where you can:  Confirm you are happy to support the campaign.  Confirm you are happy to use your logo in supporting organisations.   Deadline: Please complete this form by COB Friday 20 February.   Complete the form: http://web.disability-federation.ie/cn/aiafm/emergencypayment   Join us on 28 February  A protest is a numbers game. A small gathering is easily ignored. It’s harder to look away from a large crowd. I am asking our colleagues and members who are able to do so, to join us at the Garden of Remembrance at 1 pm. We need allies. So if you can:  Bring your partner. Bring your housemates. Bring your neighbours. Bring your friends.  We know that for many, protesting is a massive logistical and physical burden. Many cannot make it due to the lack of transport or the physical toll it takes. We need our friends and families to fill the space for those who cannot be there. The Plan  When: Saturday 28 February at 1pm. Where: Garden of Remembrance, Dublin. What: A visible demand for an Emergency Disability Payment. I know that attending a protest takes time, energy, and planning. But this is a significant moment for the movement. Let’s turn up, let’s be loud, and let’s make sure they can’t look away.  See our flyer for more information below and here.  See you there.     Kind regards,    Elaine Teague CEO Disability Federation of Ireland