The social and economic framework of disability in Ireland in recent times has shown some, at first sight, very positive developments. These developments are based around legislation, politics, economics and a growing general awareness of the need to address exclusion and marginalization throughout Irish society. In a society experiencing such profound rates of change, however, many challenges and lessons remain. Equality Legislation is now in place. The first part of the Equality Act was signed by the President and commenced operation on 18 October 1999.
Disability is now one of nine identified categories against which it is illegal to discriminate.
These categories include race, language, ethnic origin, marital status, sexual orientation, nomadic status as well as disability. This identity is very important. And in that context of combating discrimination, disability is now increasingly regarded within a civil rights context. This goes a long way towards challenging traditional concepts of charity and institutionalization. At a National level, there is a new impetus around the re-structuring of services for people with disabilities.