Robinson and McGuinness welcome disabilty report

First Minister Peter D. Robinson MP MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA have received a report outlining the barriers faced by disabled people as they go about their daily lives.

The Promoting Social Inclusion Report on Disability provides a comprehensive set of recommendations based around the key themes of Choice and Control, Early Years and Family Support, Transitions to Adulthood, Independent Living, Employment and Employability, Information and Communication and Bringing About Change.

Speaking at a reception held in Belfast City Hall, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuiness congratulated the many individuals and organisations who have played their part in making today possible: "As I look around, I am reminded of the many individuals and organisations who have played their part in making today possible. I know that many of you have been involved on the Promoting Social Inclusion Working Group and have contributed greatly to the production of the report.

"We often have the tendency to focus on the physical barriers that exist and it is important that we continue to address these. However, there are deeper attitudinal barriers that we must work to influence in a positive way. It is for myself and my Ministerial colleagues to decide on how best to cultivate positive attitudes towards disability, challenge mindsets and encourage people to value difference so that we can all benefit from a diverse, enriched society."

First Minister Peter Robinson emphasised how the venue for today’s reception was particularly symbolic: "It was in the City Hall during the 'Breaking the Barriers' conference, that the priorities which underpin the Promoting Social Inclusion process were first identified. These same priorities and themes are threaded through the report that has been presented today.

"Today is the International Day of People with Disabilities, an ideal time for us to focus our minds on what disabled people are telling us and to think about what we as a society still have to do. The Northern Ireland Executive is determined to create a society in which all disabled citizens are free to experience full, enriched lives, today’s report provides the foundation for achieving that goal."

Notes to editors:

1. The Promoting Social Inclusion Working Group on Disability can be found at the following website.

2. Printed copies of the report can be requested from admin.ersnd@dfpni.gov.uk or in writing from:

by phoning 028 9052 3497.

3. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9037 8204. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.