A disability group advising the Government has called for legally enforceable rights for people with disabilities in the new Disability Bill.
The group has also called for a Minister for Disabilities to be appointed to ensure cross-departmental co-operation in dealing with disabilities issues.
The Disability Legislation Consultation Group (DLCG) was brought together by Ms Angela Kerins, chairwoman of the National Disability Authority, at the request of the Government, to ensure effective consultation with the disability sector. It is made up of eight organisations representing people with physical and mental disabilities and their families.
The last Disability Bill was withdrawn due to severe criticism from the sector, especially over the enforceability of rights, the five- to 13-year time-scale for delivery of some provisions, and the inadequate provisions for advocacy and implementation.
According to the DLCG, new legislation must combine two approaches: positive rights to accessible services, with needs assessment and an enforceable advocacy system; and the placing of duties and requirements aimed at removing barriers to people with disabilities on public and private service-providers.
Stressing the need for a rights-based approach, Ms Kerins said: "The legislation should build on the existing equality legislation, as well as EU and international obligations, in the development of social policies that place the person with disabilities at the centre of service provision.
"The European Year of People with Disabilities 2003 represents a unique opportunity for Ireland to introduce such landmark legislation."
One of the key proposals from the group is a disability support service that would provide an independent assessment of the needs of people with disabilities. This would lead to a Statement of Need and co-ordination of resources, including individual funding where required.
The group also proposed that an independent advocacy agency be set up under the proposed new legislation, and that various measures to integrate people with disabilities into the workforce be granted statutory basis.
It also makes specific proposals on implementation, monitoring, review and enforcement of the new legislation.
Mr Donal Toolin of DLCG stressed the need for people with disabilities and their families to have access to independent judicial mechanisms to vindicate their rights.