Minister Mc McGrath, honour the commitment you made in 2015 to ratify the United Convention on the Rights of Disabled People before the end of 2016. It is one year and counting after the deadline. We, disabled people and our families have waited far too long for our rights to be recognised and protected in Irish law, by our democratically elected government. We NEED the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to be ratified immediately.

We have to end the inconceivable injustices and degrading treatment of disabled people here in Ireland. Too many disabled children and adults are living in forced institutions, separated from our families and communities, with no control over our lives, bodily integrity, often afraid, abused and unheard.

Ireland is the last country in the European Union to ratify the convention. Ratifying the Convention will mean formal recognition of our rights and enable independent living and freedom from discrimination. 11 years after the UN adopted the Convention, Ireland is the only county in the EU that has failed to ratify it.

We are asking all of you, to help us to shine a spotlight on our government’s inaction. It is NOT okay that disabled people have no control over our lives.

We, disabled people, need your support and cannot do it alone. We need everyone to please support the legal protection of Disabled people's rights. By signing this important petition to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Disabled People, your support will help to positively change our country and the lives of many for the better.

Thank you very much!