Jan-March 2026 Highlights
Strategy Consultations
We hosted our strategy sessions in five locations across the country, Waterford, Limerick, Cork, Dublin and Carrick on Shannon in January 2026. These workshops helped to inform us on our Strategic Plan for 2026-2030.
Thank you to everyone who attended to share their views on what matters most and help shape the future of Down Syndrome Ireland.
A New DSi Ambassador
Paul Scanlon was voted as the newest ambassador representing Ireland for Down Syndrome International (DSi). There was stiff competition and a very tight race, with Paul coming out on top.
Paul is a member of Down Syndrome Ireland’s Kerry branch and is on the Kerry Regional Advisory Council. He is also on the Kookability course in MTU. Well done to Paul!
Ireland Reads Ambassador
Kildare branch member, Conor O’Donnell, was announced as an official ambassador for the 2026 Ireland Reads Campaign.
Conor said, “I’m an actor and a Trinity College Dublin student with Down syndrome and I want everyone to feel included in reading. As an actor, I need to read and practise my lines. Scripts and books give me characters, confidence, and energy.”
An Amazing Administrator
Our employment team is proud to have supported Sinead Kearns in finding her administrative role at Camida.
After Camida reached out to us in 2024 to help develop this opportunity, Sinead has gone from strength to strength. In the video below, she shares her journey and her pride in becoming a permanent employee.
My Journey, My Campaign
We were delighted to launch the My Journey, My Way campaign, with the National Transport Authority.
This collaboration created easy-to-understand guides designed for people with intellectual disabilities. These guides will make it easier for people to plan their journeys, understand new routes and feel confident using public transport.
AONTAS STAR Awards
Our National Advisory Council (NAC) and Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) were shortlisted for an Aontas Star Award for Leaner Voice.
Our NAC and RACs work incredibly hard behind the scenes advocating for people with Down syndrome, helping create resources and advising us on change.
Lots of Socks
Lots of Socks is Down Syndrome Ireland’s fundraising campaign in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st.
Schools, families, neighbours and friends were invited to wear their most colourful socks and host an event in their school, home, or workplace.
This year we also had socks, pins and charms available to buy from our website shop!
Empowering Futures
We hosted an employment event that brought together employers, partners and people with Down syndrome to focus on inclusive employment.
We heard from leaders at Lidl, Specsavers, Mr. Price, Accenture, Fidelis Insurance and Core Credit Union, alongside colleagues with Down syndrome who are thriving in meaningful roles supported by our employment programme.
NAC Meet the Taoiseach
Ahead of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, members of the NAC met with Taoiseach Micheál Martin to deliver a clear message: decisions that affect people with Down syndrome must be shaped by people with Down syndrome.
Fintan Bray, NAC Chairperson, said, “The NAC represents people with Down syndrome across Ireland, so it’s important that we have these conversations.”
Members Meet the Tánaiste
Down Syndrome Ireland also met with Simon Harris and Emer Higgins, Minister of State at the Department of Children, Disability and Equality with special responsibility for Disability, to advocate for support for children across the country.
Parents and children who are part of DSI’s Early Intervention playgroups, met with the Tánaiste to call for support for children across Ireland.
Independence Workshops
Gina Grant, DSI Branch Advocacy Co-ordinator, visited branches around the country for ‘Next Steps After 18 for young people with Down syndrome’.
These interactive workshops for parents and caregivers explore what independence truly means after the age of 18. Topics covered include staying safe online and avoiding scams, transitioning into adulthood, decision-making support and rights, and more.
NAC Changemakers
Ahead of World Down Syndrome Day, members of our National and Regional Advisory Councils featured in the Sunday Independent Life magazine. This 5 page spread delved into their work and lives, and how they advocate for the rights of people with Down syndrome across the country.
Thank you to the incredible Una, Fintan, Eileen, Conor, Eric and Yann for speaking about the important work they do.
WDSD at Dublin Zoo
On March 21st, we hosted a World Down Syndrome Day celebration in Dublin Zoo. From magical moments and face painting to giant games and great music from DJ Gordo, the day was packed full of fun.
We heard inspiring talks from members Gina Daly, Fintan Bray, Una Coates, with Ross O’Neill as MC, and exciting announcements that made the celebration even more meaningful.
We were also honoured to be joined by very special guests, including Uachtarán na hÉireann Catherine Connolly, Minister of State Emer Higgins and Dr Aoife O’Donohue from the HSE.
Glór – Voices for Life
On World Down Syndrome Day, the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley and the Minister of State with responsibility for Disability, Emer Higgins, announced Glór – Voices for Life.
This new partnership that will deliver expanded specialist therapeutic services across Ireland, including Early Intervention, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy. This new partnership brings together the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, Down Syndrome Ireland, The Down Syndrome Centre Dublin, the Down Syndrome Centre Cork, Hub 21 and the HSE.
Strategy Launch
On March 21st, Down Syndrome Ireland also unveiled Unity 2026-2030, our strategic plan for the coming years. This strategy marks an important
moment in the evolution of Down
Syndrome Ireland. It is the result
of listening carefully to members,
families, volunteers, staff and
partners across the country
The message was consistent: families are tired of fighting systems. Members want to be heard and respected. Volunteers want clarity and support, and people expect DSI to be professional,
reliable and consistent wherever they live. This strategy responds directly to that feedback.