ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE NORTH WEST FORUM OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES HELD 16 JANUARY 2026 IN DISABILITY ACTION, GORTFOYLE HOUSE
CHAIRPERSON ADDRESS
I am delighted to welcome everyone today. The past year has been a very busy one for the Forum as I know by the number of groups and organisations that we are part off and meetings etc attended that again we have worked continuously to achieve Human Rights and Equality for disabled people living in Northern Ireland and beyond. I know that the Forum has made its mark (including Geneva) and encouraged and attained changes for disabled people as one of the few Disabled People Led Organisations (DPLO) in NI.
As Chairperson I have been involved in the following
We have kept up to date with all the committees meetings, networks and organisations that we work with and are represented on. We have worked tirelessly to provide information, advice and support to people with disabilities who come to us for much needed help and advice.
I have been involved in the UK Equality Campaign – cuts to social security and PIP. I have met with GB and NI politicians.
The Forum is represented on the following Committees and Fora:-
Disability Action – Board of Directors,
Disability Action - Strategic Advisory Board
Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Disability Housing Forum and Central Housing Forum including – Fundamental Review of Adaptations, Direct Labour Organisations, Adaptations Sub Group, Cost of Living sub group, Social Value Sub group
Regional Health and Social Services Committee
Foyle Down Syndrome Trust
IMTAC
Disabled People Against the Cuts (DPAC)
Disabled People Coalition for NI
NI Consortium on Human Rights (Chairperson)
Equality Coalition
North West Community Network
NI Union of Supported Employment
UNCRPD Independent Mechanism for Northern Ireland – Disability Advisory Forum
Disability Employment Network
Disabled Peoples Coalition NI
We hope in this incoming year to meet again regularly and continue the work and representation that is required to ensure disabled people achieve their human rights in all aspects of their lives.
Thank each and every one of you for your continued support and work.
Tony O’Reilly