Language is very important to all of us. Using appropriate language can guide us in how we support the rights of disabled people. It is also important to acknowledge that language preferences can change and evolve. It is important to ask a disabled person what their language preference is, as this may vary across the disabled community.
We use “identity first” language in this report. We describe someone as a “disabled person” rather than saying “a person with a disability”. The term “disabled people” is recognised by many within the disability rights movement in Ireland as aligning with the human rights approach to disability. This was the preference expressed in engagement with Disabled Persons Organisations. The wording acknowledges the fact that people are disabled by various barriers that may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
We also recognise that others may prefer the term “people or persons with disabilities”. This term reflects an understanding that they are first and foremost human beings entitled to human rights. We also acknowledge that some people do not identify with either term.