First for Derry as city hosts European Day of Persons with Disabilities conference

Derry City and Strabane District Council is holding its first annual conference to celebrate people with disabilities next week. The European Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated every year but this will be Council’s first year hosting a conference which is part of the European Union’s wider efforts to promote the mainstreaming of disability issues in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Hilary McClintock said it was a real honour to be able to host this event taking place the Guildhall on Tuesday, next 29 November, from 10.00am until 2.00pm.

She added: ‘It is very important that we support this day and raise awareness of the issues affecting people with disabilities. ‘I’m very pleased our local hero Paralympic Gold Medallist Jason Smyth will be joining us to inspire and encourage those attending to continue speaking about, working towards, leading and supporting the needs and policies that affect people with disabilities.’ Louise Boyce, Derry City and Strabane District’s Council Access and Inclusion Officer said it would be the first time Derry and Strabane would host such an event.

She added; “This will highlight and showcase the brilliant organisations that are doing creative, innovative and motivational programmes to support people with disabilities and will also be a great platform to build upon to ensure access and inclusion is mainstreamed in everyday activity.

“There will be performances by Inclusion Dance Company, Tuned in and Stage Beyond, a number of keynote speakers and special guest Paralympic Gold Medallist Jason Smyth in attendance. ‘Moving Mountains’, a booklet containing inspiring stories from people with disabilities will also be launched at the conference.” There is a limited number of invitations available for event.

To find out more about the event email [email protected], telephone 028 7125 3253 ext: 4349 or text 077 1370 7912.