Kilkenny MEP claims EU 'must take meaningful action' on long-running issue
The Kilkenny MEP was elected to the European Parliament in June
Kilkenny MEP in the Ireland South constituency, Kathleen Funchion has reiterated the need for the EU to mainstream and prioritise disability rights across all legislation and policy files.
Funchion's June election means she is the first Kilkenny MEP since Liam Aylward, and only the second woman from here after Phil Prendergast, whose political career was largely Tipperary-based.
The former Sinn Fein TD, who began her political career on the now abolished Kilkenny Borough Council in 2009, met with European Organisations including Cork-based Organisation, Horizons on the need for stronger EU action on Disabilities earlier this week.
"As the former chairperson of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, I stressed that the EU must remain a social project that actually improves the lives of all citizens, including those with disabilities, rather than becoming solely a project of warmongering, security and defence," MEP Funchion said.
"During the discussion, I highlighted the importance of lived experience, emphasising that policymakers must actively listen to grassroots organisations and individuals with disabilities to ensure that policies reflect their real needs.
"I reaffirmed my commitment to advocating for the most disadvantaged people in society, with a strong focus on social inclusion for people with disabilities, employment opportunities and workplace accessibility along with adequate and accessible housing for individuals with disabilities," she added.
"The EU must take meaningful action to mainstream disability rights in all policies. Ensuring social inclusion, access to employment, and suitable housing for people with disabilities should be at the core of our legislative agenda. I will continue to be a strong voice for those with disabilities in Ireland and across the EU," Ms Funchion included.