Hayleigh Keogh, a student at NLN Mullingar, greeted President Catherine Connolly on her arrival to formally open the Rehab Group National Advocacy Conference in Dublin on March 26.

Held at the Gibson Hotel, the event is Ireland’s largest disability-focused gathering, and brings together advocates, stakeholders and supporters from across the country to drive forward an agenda for disability rights and inclusion in 2026.

It provides a platform for individuals supported by RehabCare and National Learning Network (NLN) to voice their concerns and advocate for meaningful change.

Hayleigh Keogh, a student at NLN Mullingar, greeted President Connolly on her arrival, and also took part in a panel discussion focused on accessibility and disability rights.

“I’ve been equipped with the skills to make a positive change to the world,” said Ms Keogh, who has also served as vice-chairperson of Rehab Group’s National Advocacy Committee.

At the event, President Connolly emphasised the importance of translating rights into change in people’s everyday lives, a theme that underpinned the central discussion of the conference. “I see this national advocacy conference as an act of solidarity, an important platform to hear the voices of the 12,800 individuals who currently access Rehab services, along with their families and loved ones,” said President Connolly.

“Ensuring that we have full participation, that we develop policies to enable inclusion, equality and active citizenship for all, is surely the basis of a thriving republic.”

During the day, Ms Keogh took part in a panel bringing together voices from healthcare, policy, research and lived experience, exploring how advocates can drive real, meaningful change. Among those taking part were GP and disability rights campaigner, Dr Austin O’Carroll; Jane Ann Duffy, head of the Disability Equality Policy Unit at the Department of Children, Disability, and Equality; and Daphne Ahrend, Eurofound senior research manager.

The conversation shone a light on the cost of disability in everyday life, the persistent barriers to employment and independent living, and the role of EU policy, particularly as Ireland prepares for its EU presidency this year. The panel also examined how government commitments can move beyond ambition and deliver tangible outcomes for people with disabilities.

Rehab Group CEO, Laura Keane, highlighted the need for urgent, practical action. “We know the disabled community still faces significant barriers to accessing healthcare, transport, education, jobs, recreation, and political participation.

They also face a higher risk of poverty and social exclusion, which is exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis.

Now is the time for decision-makers to recognise the cost of disability and invest in services and supports that sincerely reflect the lives of disabled people.”