Source: Government of Ireland
The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley and Minister of State for Disability, Emer Higgins, this week hosted the Department’s annual Pre-Estimates Forum in Dublin’s Hilton Charlemont Hotel which focused on ‘Delivering value for people with disabilities’.
The Department of Children, Disability and Equality is building more person‑centred, coordinated disability supports and services that are aligned with the UNCRPD and this annual Forum provided an opportunity for stakeholders from the disability sector to come together and engage with the Department on funding priorities for Budget 2027.
The event included a wide range of stakeholders from across the sector, including representatives from Disabled Persons’ Organisations, service provider umbrella bodies, advocacy groups and statutory bodies such as the Health Service Executive.
The theme of this year’s event was ‘Delivering value for people with disabilities’.
Senior HSE staff delivered presentations on developing a more planned approach to disability services, and on the opportunities for disability services arising out of the restructuring of the HSE. Table discussions followed with attendees sharing their own views and priorities for Budget 2027.
There was also an engaging panel discussion on innovative practices and individualised supports for people with disabilities. Panellists shared their experiences of working on, or being supported by, a number of initiatives; the Bridges to Community initiative from the National Federation of Voluntary Service Providers, the Dara Possibilities Plus service, and Gheel Autism Services.
Speaking at the event today, Minister Foley said:
Minister of State Higgins said:
Budget 2026 represented a funding increase of €628 million compared to 2025, or nearly 20%. That Budget followed significant year-on-year funding increases, with an overall increase of €1.85 billion, or 91% since 2020.
HSE Specialist Disability Services now has a record budget of €3.9 billion.
Speeches from Minister Foley and Minister Emer Higgins at the Pre-Estimates Forum on Disability Services are attached below.