Disability, Diversity and Identity in Ireland’s Local and European Elections 2024

The study’s key findings are as follows:

• Systemic barriers were identified including barriers related to inaccessibility of the built environment, information and communication, negative attitudes, fear of violence, insufficient financial resources, and lack of support.
• Canvassing was named as a major issue for many, including the ability to get to people’s front doors. Safety whilst out canvassing was also a concern. Being disabled results in additional costs when canvassing.
• Access and funding were key and those interviewed believed it should be made available to all disabled candidates.
• The catalyst for entering politics was not always related to disability or other intersecting identities, however, participants expressed a responsibility to represent others who shared their identities but were not as privileged.
• Disclosure of a disability is a key consideration for disabled people, particularly those with invisible disability, when standing for election.
• Representation or the lack of representation of particular communities in politics was of concern to those interviewed.