Kildare man advocates with Taoiseach for Down Syndrome supports

AHEAD of World Down Syndrome Day, Newbridge member of Down Syndrome Ireland’s National Advisory Council (NAC), Conor O'Donnell, met with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, along with other members of the NAC to discuss issues that directly impact people with Down syndrome.

The NAC is a panel of adults with Down syndrome who formally advise Down Syndrome Ireland on advocacy positions and policy priorities. Their involvement ensures that national representation is grounded in lived experience.

Members held a meeting focused on priorities that will define the next four years, early intervention, access to transport, healthcare, and practical planning for adulthood.

Together, they outlined tangible barriers facing people with Down syndrome in Ireland today; inconsistent access to therapies, unreliable and inaccessible public transport, limited pathways to independent living, and the need for clearer transition planning from school into adulthood.

Member Conor O'Donnell, who is known for acting in Bad Sisters on AppleTV+, met with Taoiseach Micheál Martin and discussed a wide range of issues. 

He said: "It’s very important that the Taoiseach meets with us and talks with us. We spoke about transport, housing, accommodation and schemes. He should take in the information and process it. I want him to bring our issues forward."

Speaking about the flagship day on March 21 he added: "World Down Syndrome Day is important because we live in a huge community. Everyone should get out there and celebrate with their friends, partners and families."

For the first time, the NAC presented the Taoiseach with the core pillars of Down Syndrome Ireland’s forthcoming national strategy. 

Down Syndrome Ireland's new strategy sets out a roadmap for improving early intervention supports, strengthening inclusive employment pathways, and addressing systemic gaps in transport and adult services.