DCDE Statement of Strategy 2025-2027

Published May 2025

ODI’s submission to the Department of Children, Disability and Equality’s public consultation on the Department’s Statement of Strategy

The Open Doors Initiative (ODI) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the Department of Children, Disability and Equality's Statement of Strategy 2025-2027. Our submission calls for bold action to ensure people with disabilities have fair, equal, and meaningful access to employment and entrepreneurship.

Ireland has long ranked among the lowest in Europe for disability employment. Despite commitments in the Programme for Government 2025, systemic barriers continue to hold people back. ODI believes this Strategy is an opportunity to drive real change-grounded in a human rights approach and the principles of the UNCRPD.

Key Recommendations

• Establish an Employer-led Cross-Department Taskforce and Charter to coordinate action on disability inclusion.
• Expand long-term paid placement programmes across public bodies and departments.
• Create a centralised, accessible online hub for disability supports and employability information.
• Promote Employers for Change as a national resource for employers and government departments.
• Support self-employment pathways for people with disabilities, including further funding for TU Dublin's entrepreneurship course.
• Establish a Public Consultation Committee to ensure Disabled People's Organisations are fully engaged in policymaking.