The National Disability Authority Act, 1999

The National Disability Authority Act, 1999

The National Disability Authority Act, 1999 is an act of the Oireachtas (Irish Parliament) that established the National Disability Authority (NDA) in Ireland. The act defines the functions, composition, and powers of the NDA. The NDA is a statutory body that aims to promote the rights and interests of people with disabilities in Ireland. The act is complementary to the Equal Status Act 2000-2004, Disability Act 2005, and Employment Equality Act, 1998. All of these Acts were introduced to remove the ground of disability discrimination in Ireland. Part III of Disability Act 2005 highlights the amendment made in the National Disability Authority.

Establishment of the National Disability Authority

The National Disability Authority Act, 1999 (No. 14 of 1999) established the National Disability Authority (NDA) as a body corporate with legal personality. Section 6 of the act states that the NDA was to be established on the establishment day, which was determined by the National Disability Authority Act, 1999 (Establishment Day) Order, 2000. The establishment day was set as the 1st of June, 2000, by the order signed by John O’Donoghue, the then Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The Act outlines the NDA’s purpose as performing the functions assigned to it by the Act. It is important to note that the NDA is not a government department but rather an independent body with specific responsibilities and functions outlined by the Act. The Act ensures that the NDA operates as a distinct entity with its own governance structure and processes, separate from the direct control of the government.

Functions of the National Disability Authority

The National Disability Authority Act, 1999, and the Disability Act, 2005, outline the core functions of the National Disability Authority (NDA). The NDA’s primary function is to advise and inform the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth on policy and practice for people with disabilities. This includes providing expert advice on a wide range of matters, including legislation, policy development, service provision, and best practice. The NDA is also tasked with promoting the rights and interests of people with disabilities, raising awareness of disability issues, and encouraging the participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. The NDA plays a crucial role in ensuring that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and that their needs are met. In essence, the NDA acts as a bridge between the government and the disability community, facilitating dialogue and promoting understanding and inclusion.

Composition of the National Disability Authority

The composition of the National Disability Authority (NDA), as stipulated in the National Disability Authority Act 1999, as amended by the Disability Act 2005, consists of a Chairperson and twelve ordinary members. The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth appoints these members. The NDA board meets six times annually, with the composition of the board reflecting diverse perspectives and expertise. The board comprises individuals with lived experience of disability, professionals from various fields, and representatives of disability organizations. This inclusive composition ensures that the NDA’s decisions are informed by diverse viewpoints and that the needs of the disability community are adequately represented. The board members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their roles, contributing to the NDA’s effectiveness in promoting the rights and interests of people with disabilities in Ireland.

Statutory Functions of the National Disability Authority

The National Disability Authority (NDA) is vested with specific statutory functions outlined in the National Disability Authority Act, 1999, and further elaborated upon in the Disability Act, 2005. These functions are designed to ensure the NDA effectively promotes the rights and interests of people with disabilities in Ireland. The NDA’s statutory functions include⁚ advising and informing the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth on policy and practice for people with disabilities; promoting the rights and interests of people with disabilities; raising awareness of disability issues; encouraging the participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society; monitoring the implementation of legislation and policies relating to disability; and promoting research and development in the field of disability. These functions are interconnected and aimed at creating a society that is inclusive and equitable for people with disabilities.

Freedom of Information Act and the National Disability Authority

The National Disability Authority (NDA) is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2014 (the Act). This means the NDA is obligated to be transparent and accountable in its operations by providing access to information held by the organization. The Act mandates the NDA to establish and maintain a publication scheme, which outlines the information that is proactively published and readily available to the public. This scheme is guided by the principles of openness, accountability, and transparency set out in the Act. The NDA’s commitment to upholding the Freedom of Information Act reflects its dedication to fostering trust and confidence in its operations. This transparency allows the public to understand the NDA’s activities, decisions, and policies, promoting greater accountability and engagement with the organization.