education

Breaking Barriers, Building Acceptance: Adam Harris on Autism in Ireland

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Adam Harris, founder and CEO of As I Am, Ireland’s national autism charity. The discussion explored what autism is, the challenges faced by autistic people and their families, and the vital role As I Am plays in advocacy, support, and community change. What […]

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Butterfly Skin, Strong Voices: Raising EB Awareness with Debra Ireland

On a recent episode of Disability Matters, host John Comiskey spoke with Alejandra Livschitz, Head of Strategic Communications at Debra Ireland. The conversation offered deep insights into epidermolysis bullosa (EB)—often referred to as the “butterfly skin” condition—and the vital work Debra Ireland does to support individuals and families living with it. What is EB? EB,

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Changing Lives, Building Independence: Ciara Heffernan on the Work of Rehab Ireland

“Unfortunately, anyone can find themselves living with a disability — it can happen in an instant.” That’s how Ciara Heffernan from Rehab Ireland begins her conversation with host John Comiskey on Disability Matters. It’s a reminder that the organisation’s work is not just for “someone else” — it could be for you, a friend, or

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See My Skills: William O’Brien on Unlocking Potential, One Opportunity at a Time

“See me, see my skills — that’s what we’re all about.” William O’Brien, founder and CEO of See My Skills, speaks with warmth, conviction, and more than a little Cork humour when he sits down with Disability Matters host John Comiskey. His mission is simple but powerful: to open doors for teenagers and young adults

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Beyond the Headache: Pascal Derrien Explains the Complex Reality of Migraine

“People often think migraine is just a bad headache — it’s far more complex than that.”That’s how Pascal Derrien, CEO of the Migraine Association of Ireland, opens his conversation with host John Comiskey on Disability Matters. His words set the tone for a discussion that moves beyond myths, breaking down the reality of living with

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Disability Support in Action: Kingsriver and the Innovation Bridge – Gerard McGrath’s Story

“The moment I walked in, I felt welcome.”That’s how Gerard McGrath describes his first day at Kingsriver Community in Co. Kilkenny — this first impression was the beginning of a journey toward confidence, purpose, and community. Gerard recently joined Disability Matters to share his story—one that reflects the real impact of person-centred support in action.

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Discover Gaisce: The President’s Award for Youth Achievement

In a special episode of Disability Matters, John Comiskey welcomed two inspiring guests from Gaisce – The President’s Award: Joy Winston, Development Officer for North Dublin and Wicklow, and Conor Dillon, a 2025 Youth Ambassador and the first wheelchair user to hold this position. Gaisce celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Since 1985, the programme

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Empowering Inclusion in Physical Education: A Conversation with DCU’s Susan Marron and Frances Murphy

Inclusion has become a central theme in education, and nowhere is this more evident than in the efforts of Dr. Frances Murphy and Susan Marron from the School of Arts Education and Movement at Dublin City University’s Institute of Education. In their conversation with Disability Matters, the two educators shared how their work in physical

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