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Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 makes it unlawful for service providers to discriminate against disabled people for a reason related to their disability. The Act also places a duty on service providers to make 'reasonable adjustments' to the physical features of their premises to overcome physical barriers to access by October 2004.

The Department has completed a programme of work to ensure 'reasonable adjustments' were made to its buildings. We are also committed to ensuring that staff receive proper training to enable them to provide a more effective and efficient service when dealing with vistors/customers.

Disability Discrimination (NI) Order 2006

The Disability Discrimination (NI) Order is due to take effect in 2006. This new Order will enable people with disabilities in Northern Ireland to enjoy the same rights as their fellow citizens in Great Britain.

Further information on the DDA and the new Disability Discrimination (NI) Order 2006 can be obtained from the Equality Commission website at: http://www.equalityni.org/site/default.asp?secid=home Opens in a new window

Disability Action Plan

An amendment to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA 1995) requires public authorities, when carrying out their functions, to have due regard to the need to:

  • Promote positive attitudes towards disabled people; and
  • Encourage participation by disabled people in public life.

The Department is required to submit to the Equality Commission (the Commission) a Disability Action Plan showing how it proposes to fulfill these duties in relation to its functions. The plan was submitted to the Commission on the 29 June 2007.

The Departments Disability Action Plan is linked below. The Department will continue to consider any future comments received and review as part of the annual progress report to the Commission. All comments on the plan can be forwarded to the Department's Equality Unit at EqualityUnit@drdni.gov.uk

You can access the Disability Action Plan by clicking on the following link DRD Disability Action Plan (64Kb)