Over 45,000 people in Ireland have epilepsy meaning it is one of the most common neurological conditions in the country, while over 50 million people live with epilepsy worldwide. In this Disability Matters episode, John Comiskey speaks with Patrick McGeoghegan, Advocacy and Communications Manager at Epilepsy Ireland about the realities of living with epilepsy, busting […]
“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism. No two are the same.” This quote from Dr. Stephen Stone captures the spirit of our recent interview with Stephen Murray, Engagement Officer and Mentor at Aspire Ireland. Speaking on Phoenix FM’s Disability Matters with John Comiskey, Stephen provided invaluable insight into
Understanding Autism: Insights from Aspire Ireland Read More »
“We look after 302 people now. We went from 36 people to 302 since 2019.” The Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL) has come a long way since its modest beginnings. Originally established in 1994 by people with disabilities for people with disabilities, the goal has always been clear: empower individuals to live independently in
Antoinette Tierney about the Evolution of BCIL: From 36 to 302 Lives Changed Read More »
On Thursday, 22 May, Sharon Lane from Dyspraxia DCD Ireland joined John Comiskey on the Disability Matters radio programme on Phoenix 92.5FM to talk about what dyspraxia (also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder or DCD) really is, how it affects both children and adults, and what services are available for those living with the condition.
Support Services for Dyspraxia: What You Need to Know Read More »
The Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living welcomes the Government’s announcement of over €117 million in funding for the 2025 Housing Adaptation Grant programme, aimed at supporting 13,000 older people and disabled individuals across Ireland. This increased investment—26% more than in 2024—will make a meaningful difference in helping people to remain living safely and independently in
Increase in Housing Adaptation Grants to Support Independent Living Read More »
“They can do anything anyone else can do — it might just take them a little bit longer.” In this insightful episode of Disability Matters, hosts John Comiskey and Patrick O’Donnell welcome Dearbhail Mullan, Treasurer of Williams Syndrome Ireland, to discuss the realities, resilience, and joys of living with Williams Syndrome — a rare neurodevelopmental
“The best voice you can hear is of the lived experience.” Geraldine Rooney, Development Officer at Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL) in an interview with John Comiskey on “Disability Matters” explained a new initiative — the Self-Advocacy Toolkit developed in partnership with the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI). Rooted in two decades of peer-led
Self-Advocacy Toolkit: Empowering Voices with Geraldine Rooney Read More »
The misuse of accessible parking spaces is an ongoing issue that affects the daily lives of people with disabilities across Ireland. John McFarlane, a wheelchair user from Co Offaly, recently spoke out about how this behavior prevents disabled individuals from participating fully in everyday activities like shopping, going to the bank, or visiting public spaces.
Misuse of Accessible Parking Spaces Blocks Independence Read More »
