Jack Murray gains key EU backing for disability rights plan - Donegal Daily

Donegal County Councillor Jack Murray’s Opinion on enhancing the EU Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities up to 2030 has cleared an important sta...

Donegal County Councillor Jack Murray’s Opinion on enhancing the EU Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities up to 2030 has cleared an important stage after being adopted by the European Committee of the Regions’ SEDEC Commission in Brussels today.

Cllr Murray, who is serving as Rapporteur on the Opinion, welcomed the result following a detailed meeting which included 39 votes on amendments.

The Opinion has been shaped by engagement with disability advocates and representative organisations in Donegal and across the EU, guided by the principle “Nothing about us, without us.”

Cllr Murray said: “When I took on this European role, I hoped I could use it to make a difference for people back home in Donegal. I hope this work can help do exactly that.

“The Opinion focuses on practical issues that affect people’s everyday lives — making our towns, transport and public services more accessible, improving access to education and employment, supporting independent living, tackling discrimination, and ensuring councils and regions have the tools to deliver real change.

“I’m extremely grateful to the disability advocates and representative organisations in Donegal and across Europe who contributed their experiences and expertise.”

The 10th SEDEC commission meeting will take place at the European Committee of the Regions

Cllr Murray also thanked Inishowen’s Áine Sperrin, who was appointed as expert to assist him with the Opinion, describing her knowledge, experience and guidance throughout the process as “invaluable”.

While in Brussels, Cllr Murray also met Minister of State Marian Harkin to update her on the work and discuss how the proposals could translate into practical action in Ireland.

“I hope the Irish Government will take these recommendations on board. The purpose of this work is to help bring about meaningful improvements for people with disabilities in communities like our own.”

Cllr Murray with Marian Harkin, Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Following its adoption at SEDEC Commission, the Opinion will now progress to the full European Committee of the Regions plenary in December, where Cllr Murray will present it in the hemicycle in the European Parliament building for consideration and final adoption.