The Equality Tribunal has ordered a local authority to pay the maximum €6,350 compensation to the mother of an autistic child.
The authority was also ordered to build an extension for the child immediately, or rehouse the whole family in suitable accommodation.
The claimant, who is a local authority tenant, was represented by the Equality Authority in taking a case under the Equal Status Act.
The claim was brought in respect of the child's mother's application under the Disabled Person's Alteration Scheme for an extension to provide additional required space for her autistic son to her mid-terrace house.
The initial claim, made in 2001, was refused along with a further appeal of that decision. After two appeals her application was approved but accorded a low priority level.
In 2004, the local authority changed its policy and stated it would no longer build extensions to mid-terraced properties but would invite tenants to transfer to alternative suitable accommodation.
The claimant was not transferred to alternative suitable accommodation.
The authority must also draw up a formal written policy in relation to the Disabled Person's Alteration Scheme.
Chief Executive of the Equality Authority Niall Crowley welcomed the decision saying it will have major implications for decision makers when it comes to processing applications made by people with disabilities.
