Ann Marie Flanagan has amplified her call for political parties to “urgently act on promises made to disabled people and their families” as she launched her Seanad campaign.
In her campaign launch speech, she urged all elected officials, including those aiming to form a new government, to prioritize the vital need for support for disabled individuals throughout their political campaigns.
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.
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 There are thousands of young disabled people trapped in nursing homes and outdated congregated buildings”.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”.
Ms. Flanagan has spearheaded national campaigns, shaped government policy, and led reforms in user-directed services, including personal assistance, affordable childcare, accessible transport, independent advocacy, and mental health family recovery. She holds an MSc in Partnership and Public Administration and has pursued an LLM in International Disability Policy, Human Rights, and Law.