A look back at World Down Syndrome Day 2024
It was a busy week in Down Syndrome Ireland celebrating one of the biggest events of the year, World Down Syndrome Day.
Let’s take a look at what our members got up to…
Corridors of Power
First off, a delegation of our members took a visit to Government Buildings and meet Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD. It was a memorable visit to the corridors of power, and a number of our members spent 30 minutes in the Tánaiste’s office, telling him all about their lives and achievements. Our deepest thanks to Fintan and Eamonn Bray for arranging this visit.
Eric and Sinéad Answer Everything
National Advisory Council Members Eric Nolan and Sinéad Friel appeared in an RTÉ News video, answering some question about Down syndrome.
They discussed important topics such as independence, alcohol and relationships.
Gerard O’Carroll on RTÉ Drivetime
DSI President Gerard O’Carroll was interviewed on RTÉ Radio’s flagship Drivetime show, in honour of World Down Syndrome Day. This is a thought-provoking discussing on the meaning of World Down Syndrome Day, the importance of challenging stereotypes, and the need for societal change to allow our members to live lives of their own choosing. Check it out here.
Our Futsal heroes star on Ireland AM
Click the image to watch on YouTube
Virgin Media TV weather star Deric Hartigan marked World Down Syndrome Day by visiting our heroic Futsal team at Claremont Stadium in Navan. Deric pulled on his Ireland jersey to join national team members and guests for a few impressive training drills, under the watchful eye of national team coach Paul Smyth. Watch it here.
Cian shines on News2Day!
Member Cian Mulry from Roscommon was Molly’s guest on a special World Down Syndrome Day edition of news2day. Cian told viewers all about his life, likes and hobbies and proved a funny, vibrant guest. Later in the show, reporter Barry visited CHI Tallaght for a very informative segment featuring our very own Fiona McGrane.
Spotlight on DSI members
Click the image to watch on YouTube
In keeping with this year’s theme of End The Stereotypes, Down Syndrome Ireland produced four special videos for World Down Syndrome Day focusing on some of our members in employment across the country. The videos showcased the incredible work of our Employment team and National Employment Programme, but, above all else, they highlighted the talents of our members.
All four videos can be viewed on our YouTube channel at the links below:
- James (Allianz Insurance, Dublin)
- Katie (Maldron Wexford)
- Niamh (Bus Éireann, Cork)
- Ciara (Dublin One hotel)
WDSD on the News stands
Ahead of World Down Syndrome Day, our Employment programme featured in the Irish Times. Emmet Malone interviewed Head of Employment Aoife Gaffney about workplace prospects for people with Down syndrome, and also spoke to athlete and National Lottery employee Liam Foley. You can download a PDF here.
Eileen Dunne – World Down Syndrome Day Address
There was an inspiring address from Ireland’s Down Syndrome International ambassador Eileen Dunne, who spoke about the significance of World Down Syndrome Day, health equality and the importance of Ending the Stereotypes. It was a rousing finale to this year’s coverage, and we encourage everyone to watch it.
