Mayo TD welcomes Mayo Self-Advocacy Group to Leinster House

Deputy Keira Keogh was delighted to welcome the Mayo Self-Advocacy Group to Leinster House today, June 25.

The Mayo Self-Advocacy Group, a voluntary organisation supported by Western Care Association, is a group of advocates, who are elected by their peers from local groups. Working to promote the rights, independence, and inclusion of people with intellectual and associated disabilities, the group is committed to helping individuals live enjoyable, meaningful, and fully engaged lives as equal members of society.

During their visit to the Dáil, the group enjoyed lunch and a guided tour of Leinster House, gaining an insight into the workings of the national parliament. They were accompanied by their dedicated support staff, who play a key role in encouraging and facilitating their advocacy. Minister of State for Small Business and Retail & Circular Economy, Alan Dillon also met with the Mayo group.

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The group recently created a powerful and thought-provoking short film titled “IT and Me”, which explores the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities in a digital world. Deputy Keogh looks forward to inviting them back to Leinster House again in the near future for a special screening of their film.

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Speaking about the visit, Deputy Keogh said: “It was a real honour to welcome the Mayo Self-Advocacy Group to Leinster House today. Their voices and lived experiences are essential in shaping inclusive policies. Their film ‘IT and Me’ is a moving and insightful piece of work, and I look forward to having them back soon to share it with a wider audience here in Leinster House.”