There's a lack of focus on disability within local authorities which has undermined the role of access officers, according to research published today.
The research said many local authority employees, responsible for providing assistance to disabled people seeking to access services, are not in full-time roles.
The research, commissioned by the Disability Federation of Ireland called 'Bridging the Gap', has examined implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities.
It said there are "persistent challenges" at local government level where many disability services and supports are delivered.
Access officers provide or coordinate assistance and guidance for disabled people so they can access the services and information provided by a public body. It is a role that is required under law.
However, the report said there is "limited scope" within the access officer role and many are part-time.
Researchers issued surveys to access officers and chief executives in local authorities nationwide - response rates stood at 45% and 38%, respectively.
Most of the access officers who responded said that their role was an "add-on" to their full-time positions, often without a defined job description.
This resulted in a lack of focus on disability within local authorities and a weakening of their responsibilities which undermined the effectiveness of the role, according to the report.
A recurring theme throughout the survey responses was inadequate training provided to access officers.
The lack of formalised and consistent training was found to undermine the ability of access officers to perform their duties effectively.
Gaps in consultation and engagement with disabled people at local level was also highlighted.
While some local authorities established strong networks with disability groups, such as local disability networks and through their Public Participation Network, others had less formal or structured engagement processes.
Several access officers also stated that their role lacked recognition and support at both the local and national levels.
The absence of dedicated budgets for accessibility projects was cited as a key obstacle to progress.
The researchers analysed relevant laws, policies, and previous research, both domestically and internationally on the role of local government in implementing the UN CRPD.
Despite reform over the past decade, Ireland remains one of the most centralised countries in Europe and local authorities have a limited role in determining public spending, according to the report.
In addition, it said Irish local authorities receive among the lowest funding across OECD countries.
It stated that there is "a reported power imbalance" between elected councillors and chief executives within local authorities when compared to the structure of local authorities in other OECD countries.
The report authors Dr Charles O'Mahony and Dr Mary Keogh outlined some key actions to bridge the current gaps.
They recommended strengthening compliance with the Disability Act and enhancing public accountability; establishing national guidelines and best practice models to guide local authorities; and provide dedicated, full-time access officers with appropriate training and funding.
