Department of Children, Disability and Equality

12/10/2026

For more info and to enter, see here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/campaigns/art-competition-2026/

There's still time to enter the GUI National Children’s Art Competition!

We’re inviting children aged 4-15 to show us their creativity through an artwork sharing their vision of an “Ireland of the Future”.

Entries must be submitted by 12pm on Friday, 23 October 2026. For competition details, including how to enter and terms and conditions, please see here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/campaigns/art-competition-2026/

12/10/2026

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley and Minister of State with responsibility for Disability, Emer Higgins have announced the campaign, which will highlight the wide range of career opportunities available across the sector and the vital work carried out every day to support disabled people to live full and independent lives.
The campaign comes alongside significant investment in the disability workforce, with Budget 2027 providing for an additional 930 posts next year, building on almost 1,000 additional whole-time equivalent posts provided for in 2026.

12/10/2026

"Ireland has played a very critical role over the years in supporting human rights in general and the human rights of LGBT people in particular".

Speaking at the HLC on Non-Discrimination and LGBTIQ+ Equality, Dr. Graeme Reid noted the significance of the event in the context of a wider pushback against human rights and how the rights of minorities are often targeted.

Dr. Reid is the UN Independent Expert on Protection against Violence and Discrimination based on S.O.G.I.

11/10/2026

Every girl deserves the freedom to learn, grow and shape her own future. Today we mark International Day of the Girl Child and reaffirm our support for girls’ rights and opportunities.

Around the world, girls are breaking stereotypes and overcoming barriers that have long held them back — from being denied an education and facing early or forced marriage to experiencing gender-based violence.

Despite these challenges, they continue to pursue their dreams and strive to reach their full potential.

On Sunday's International Day of the Girl Child and every day, join UN Women in standing with girls as they take charge of their futures.

09/10/2026

Hon. Rosianne Cutajar MP is Malta’s Minister for Equality and Civil Rights.

She attended our HLC on Non-Discrimination and LGBTIQ+ Equality earlier this week, delivering Ministerial remarks as part of the morning session.

She spoke to us about how the Conference represents an opportunity to share lived experiences and legislative progress.

09/10/2026

There's still time to enter the GUI National Children’s Art Competition!

We’re inviting children aged 4-15 to show us their creativity through an artwork sharing their vision of an “Ireland of the Future”.

Entries must be submitted by 12pm on Friday, 23 October 2026. For competition details, including how to enter and terms and conditions, please see here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/campaigns/art-competition-2026/

09/10/2026

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley - TD has released further details of the impact of reductions in early learning and childcare costs for families in Budget 2027.

A key priority of the Budget is making early learning and childcare more affordable for families.

The maximum fees that can be charged by providers in Core Funding will be reduced for children in both part-time and full-time care.

The National Childcare Scheme subsidy will also increase for children in early years, junior infants and senior infants from September 2027, given the higher costs faced by this group on average.

For the full press release, please see here: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/press-releases/minister-foley-releases-further-details-of-reductions-in-early-learning-and-childcare-costs-for-families-in-budget-2027/

09/10/2026

Submissions close today at 5pm! Visit gov.ie/DisabilityActReview to have your say.

Submissions are invited from disabled people, families, carers, disabled persons' organisations, and anyone with an interest in the future of disability services in Ireland.

The consultation is fully accessible and submissions can be made in formats including Braille, ISL, Easy-to-Read, audio, and video.

Equal access. Equal voices. Equal futures.

08/10/2026

Submissions close this Friday at 5pm! Visit gov.ie/DisabilityActReview to have your say.

Submissions are invited from disabled people, families, carers, disabled persons' organisations, and anyone with an interest in the future of disability services in Ireland.

The consultation is fully accessible and submissions can be made in formats including Braille, ISL, Easy-to-Read, audio, and video.

Equal access. Equal voices. Equal futures.

07/10/2026

continues investment in programmes that promote equality, participation and inclusion.

Funding will support initiatives that help build communities where everyone can participate fully and equally.

🔗 Read more: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-children-disability-and-equality/press-releases/press-release-budget-2027/