International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Why Inclusion Must Move From Awareness to Action
December 3, 2025
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Why Inclusion Must Move From Awareness to Action
But in Ireland, the employment reality tells a stark story.
Just 32% of people with disabilities are in work – one of the lowest rates in Europe and far below the EU average of 51%. Despite progress, barriers to employment remain significant, and the impact is social, economic, and deeply personal.
Why This Day Matters for Ireland
The UN’s theme for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is centred on equality, participation, and the full inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society.
The message is clear: Inclusion requires action.
The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Disability Matters has echoed this call, emphasising that Ireland must accelerate inclusive practices across workplaces, public services, and community settings. And employment is one of the most critical areas where change must happen.
The Disability Employment Gap: A National Challenge
- Underestimation of people’s capabilities
- Lack of accessible recruitment practices
- Limited awareness of grants and supports
- Insufficient disability and inclusion training
- Fear of “getting it wrong”
But these challenges are solvable and employers are not alone in trying to address them.
How Turas Nua Supports People With Disabilities Into Employment
As Ireland’s Social Recruitment and Training Partner, Turas Nua provides personalised, practical support that helps people with disabilities move into work with confidence.
- One-to-one career coaching
- Supported job search
- CV and interview preparation
- Adjustment planning with employers
- In-work support to sustain employment
- Employer guidance to ensure inclusive hiring
Inclusion Requires Action: Training, Awareness & Workplace Change
Inclusive workplaces don’t happen by accident. Employers can start by accessing FRS Training’s DEI programme, which builds understanding, reduces stigma, and provides practical tools for supporting staff with disabilities.
Businesses can also use government grants and supports — including wage subsidies and reasonable accommodation funding — to remove barriers to inclusive hiring.
Small changes in recruitment, such as clearer job descriptions, flexible interviews, and a skills-based approach, make a meaningful difference. Turas Nua is here to help employers take these steps with confidence.
A More Inclusive Future Is Possible
If you are an employer looking to build a more inclusive workforce — or if you want help applying inclusive hiring practices — our Employer Services Team is here to support you.
Contact us today to learn how Turas Nua can support your organisation.
