Spokeout
February 2026

Hello Readers. Our February edition is here and we hope it takes your mind off the terrible weather!

It’s a bumper issue packed with lots of riveting articles including an interview with Minister for Disability Emer Higgins who was appointed to the role in recent months.

Valentine’s Day is upon us, a time to celebrate the people who mean the most to us — whether that’s a friend, family member, or partner. Read our members’ stories inside.

We take a look at IWA’s Climate journey, celebrate the amazing impact of our partnership with Chadwicks, two members share their experiences of working life, and students give their verdict on IWA’s Disability Schools’ awareness project, DAISY.

We bring you up to date on our campaign for a €400 Emergency Winter Payment for people with disabilities,  which has been rejected by the Government, and now steps up another gear with a protest planned for February 28th in Dublin City.

There’s all this and lots more inside.

Until next month,

Marie

PS: As always, please get in touch if you have any feedback or would like to share your story.

Spotlight on:
Minister Emer Higgins

In this issue:

  • Spotlight on: Minister Emer Higgins
    "My focus is on making sure that the realities people are experiencing are understood and taken into account" - Minister Higgins
  • Advocacy
    Protest planned after Government refuses Emergency Winter Payment
  • Fundraising
    Thank you for making Christmas one to remember
  • Sport
    Jack Quinn and Rebel Wheelers’ seven-year love affair with the National Cup
  • How IWA’s DAISY Project is educating young people on disability
  • Valentine’s Day: Celebrating those we love
  • Chadwicks supports IWA to get it done!
    Charity partner helping to transform IWA facilities and centres nationwide.
  • Entering the workplace: ‘I can do anything I put my mind to’
  • Small Changes Can Protect the Environment and Save you Money
    Sustainability is in all our interest