'Every Child Matters' holds protest in Johnstown, Navan

Ahead of their visit to the Dáil next Tuesday, parents and families involved in the 'Every Child Matters' campaign held a protest in Johnstown, Navan, to highlight the impact the lack of disability services is having on their children.

The protest outside the Bailis Resource Centre in Johnstown, followed a similar protest in Trim last week by parents who are frustrated and angry at having to constantly fight for services for their children.

What started as a small campaign by parents in Trim, has gained momentum to include families in many other counties.

"It was a great turnout yesterday, and it was brilliant to see so many people coming out to support the campaign. The amount of people stopping their cars to sign the petition was amazing and really showed the level of local support," said organiser Mandy Clarke-Garry.

"The support from local people has been surreal and truly felt. Parents who were attending a parenting course in the CDNT building while we were there came out and joined us when they finished.

"Every parent who has attended our recent gatherings is finding support and comfort in one another. It means so much to know that they are not alone on this journey or in this fight".

The campaign is calling for meaningful improvements to disability services for children and young people, including CDNT, CAMHS and AON.

The campaign now moves to the Dáil on Tuesday, 29th September, where parents will meet with TDs and representatives to share their lived experiences and highlight the urgent need for change.