Ann Marie Flanagan launches Seanad campaign calling on government to fulfill promises to disabled people

James Cox

Ann Marie Flanagan has stepped up her call to political parties to "urgently act on promises made to disabled people and their families" as she launched her Seanad campaign.

Ms Flanagan is bidding to become the first disabled women to be elected to Seanad Éireann.

Ms Flanagan has been nominated by Independent Living Movement Ireland under the Administrative Panel.

In her launch address, she called on all elected politicians, some hoping to form a new government, to act on the critical need to support disabled people during their various political campaigns.

The Clare native said: “The Care Referendum in March exposed the lack of understanding of a rights-based approach in policy, funding and legislation about disabled children, adults and families. Disabled people and families feel ignored when political parties discuss key issues and do not mention them, such as the housing crisis. There are thousands of young disabled people trapped in nursing homes and outdated congregated buildings”.

Ms Flanagan added: “We have all witnessed the importance of inclusion and equality in recent policy debates. I am offering policy and legislative expertise to bring forward the reform promised. I will support councillors, TDs, and Senators of all parties and independents in meeting the needs of their constituents and fulfilling their promises. I am asking them to support my campaign in this historic moment by electing me. My lifetime has been spent creating transformative solutions, advancing policy, and addressing systemic barriers, thus furthering equality and inclusion in Irish society. Together, lets forge a path toward justice, equality, and representation, ensuring that every voice is heard in our democracy.”

As a disabled woman, mother, wife, rights advocate, writer, and editor for over 30 years, Ms Flanagan said she "brings a combination of lived and professional expertise to the role".

She has led national campaigns, influenced State policy, and driven reforms in user-led services, including personal assistance services, affordable childcare, accessible transport, independent advocacy, and mental health family recovery. Ms Flanagan holds an MSc in Partnership and Public Administration and has studied an LLM in International Disability policy & Human Rights Policy and Law.