A Declaration by Irish Adults with Down Syndrome

We want our RIGHTS as citizens to be recognised

• We have the right to vote
• We need politicians to respect our rights as citizens
• We need political parties to prepare documents in an easy to read format
• All policies that the government make influence us
• Organisations like Down syndrome Ireland can help decision makers identify needs and address these needs in the best way.
• The best way to include us is to ask for our opinions

We want real opportunities in EDUCATION

• Education for all is the first step towards an inclusive society.
• Education must be recognised as a fundamental human right.
• We want to access third level education
• We are asking for the following:
• The provision of academic personal assistance programmes.
• Books and educational materials in accessible formats
  • Alternative forms of testing and evaluation
  • Teaching staff to be trained at undergraduate level
  • The development of an admissions process that does not discriminate against us

We Want Real opportunities in EMPLOYMENT

• People with Down syndrome are one of the most under-represented groups in the labour market. There is a misconception among Irish employers that people with Down syndrome cannot cope with employment or are only able to undertake routine methodical jobs.
• People with Down syndrome want to work and represent a substantial source of untapped commitment and talent
• The right to work is a fundamental human right
• We want politicians to:
• Promote the employment of people with learning disabilities
• Discover ways to increase the number of people with learning disabilities in the labour market
• Examine existing employment legislation that is not favourable to people with learning disabilities.

Help us to make Ireland the most promising country in the world for a person with Down syndrome to live