Closing the Disability Employment Gap in Ireland: From Awareness to Action
October 1, 2025
Closing the Disability Employment Gap in Ireland: From Awareness to Action
In Ireland, the disability employment gap is the widest in Europe. The European Disability Forum (2023) indicates that only 32% of people with disabilities are in work, compared to the EU average of 51%. People with disabilities are more than twice as likely to be unemployed as non-disabled peers.
Inclusion is a social priority, but it’s also a national challenge.
Disability: The Forgotten Dimension of Diversity
The OECD and Ireland’s National Disability Authority highlight a consistent problem: disability is often the largest, yet least prioritised, diversity group in workplaces.
While strides have been made in gender and ethnic diversity, disability inclusion too often lags behind. True diversity means placing disability front and centre of workplace strategies, not leaving it as an afterthought.
The Business Case for Disability Inclusion
Inclusive hiring is not just the right thing to do — it’s the smart thing to do.
Research by Accenture (Getting to Equal, 2018) found that companies leading in disability inclusion achieved 28% higher revenue and 30% higher profit margins than peers.
People with disabilities bring unique perspectives, resilience, and problem-solving skills that strengthen teams.
Inclusive workplaces better reflect the communities they serve — boosting trust, engagement, and brand reputation.
From Awareness to Action: Building Inclusion
Ireland has supports in place for employers. But financial supports alone don’t close the gap.
Real progress comes from a cultural shift – embedding accessibility, training staff, and ensuring leadership buy-in.
At Turas Nua, we deliver Employability services. Our Coordinators, Job Coaches, and employer networks connect people with disabilities to meaningful work while supporting inclusive recruitment.
FRS Training also provide Disability, Equality & Inclusion Training, giving employers the tools and confidence to build inclusive workplaces.
Turning Awareness into Measurable Change
The ESRI has shown that sustainable inclusion happens only when employers:
- Embed accessibility into policies and procedures
- Provide training at all levels
- Ensure leadership champions diversity
Awareness campaigns spark important conversations but it’s the everyday decisions of employers that truly close the gap.
Acknowledging Inclusive Employers
This month, we want to recognise the Irish employers already making that choice, those who see ability first, open doors, and create opportunities.
Their leadership is shaping stronger, more diverse workplaces and changing lives in the process.
Take the Next Step
If you are an employer looking to build a more inclusive workforce, Turas Nua is here to help.
From Employability services to workplace training and advice on reasonable accommodations, our team provides the support you need to take inclusion from awareness to action.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your organisation.
