Today we met with Dr. Christine Linehan who was extremely informative and passionate about disability rights in Ireland. During her talk, I was surprised that the Irish government allocates 106,000 euros for individuals with an intellectual disability. However, I am curious if the government takes into consideration how much the individual will have to pay for private services (such as having access to an OT, PT, SLP, etc.,) or if the amount given to them has already taken that into consideration. I am also curious how the services and accommodations for individuals with intellectual disabilities of the US compare to that of Ireland as both countries have yet to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).  While the US may seem to have sufficient resources for individuals with intellectual disabilities given the ADA civil rights law, there are many aspects in disability services that could be improved in the US.

When exploring the city of Dublin, I noticed that at the bus stops there are posters of the Irish Special Olympics. At first I thought that was great, because I have only ever seen commercials on TV for the US Special Olympics, never posters around the city of Boston. However, I also thought about how society may view this or other individuals with disabilities. Does the Special Olympics segregate individuals with disabilities from the rest of society or is it an inclusive event? When exploring Dublin I also noticed that the buses are very narrow and a wheelchair would not be able to fit let alone be able to get onto the bus. I know buses in Amherst are wheelchair accessible, but I will have to look for that the next time I am in Boston. I know the subways in Boston require going downstairs. It will be interesting to see what the UN conferences recommend for improving transportation for individuals with disabilities.