Simon Harris

Sent the 2026 AsIAm Same Chance Report to TDs, Senators and Irish MEPs

EPIC developed a pre-budget submission to contribute to government deliberations on Budget 2027 Submission seeks increased investment in Tusla and enhanced cross-government investment across Departments and State agencies in a range of services for children in care and young…

Support and sustain the early years and school age childcare sector. Put childcare on a more sustainable footing through higher core funding, a multi-annual investment plan, and stronger quality supports for providers.

Strengthen supports for working parents - Reduce barriers to employment for parents by lowering childcare costs, improving inclusion for children with additional needs, and reforming parental leave to support greater equality and flexibility.

• Shoring up of allyship and political support for LGBTQI+ inclusion • Commitment to the development of a National Action Plan on Hate • Commitment to a review/ needs analysis of funding for LGBTQI+ community organisations • Commitment, across Departments and from the…

To raise awareness of the benefits of parenting support programmes and related initiatives.

Increased awareness among decision makers in the areas of TUSLA Child & Family Services, Education, HSE Disability. Irish Youth Justice and Mental Health as well as relevant peer organisations about the work that YAP Ireland does and the strong outcomes that we achieve with…

To secure Government engagement in streamlining Garda Vetting for Jack and Jill healthcare professionals, including reducing processing times and exploring greater recognition of existing vetting across approved organisations. The intended result is a robust, efficient system…

Support for our Budget 2027 proposals: Pay parity for graduates, an increase in Graduate Premiums and in-service days for Early Years and School Age Care settings

Increased awareness among decision makers in the areas of TUSLA Child & Family Services, Education, HSE Disability, Irish Youth Justice and Mental Health about the work that YAP Ireland does and the strong outcomes that we achieve with young people and families

Raise profile of the National FRC Programme and to highlight and advocate for key funding priorities of Family Resource Centres (FRCs).

Increase awareness and understanding of needs for people with Down syndrome ahead of World Down Syndrome Day.

To secure increases in targeted income supports in Budget 2026; to secure increased funding for early childhood education and care particularly for children experiencing poverty; to secure increased funding for Tusla.

Support for the 14th Autism Europe Congress::Support for creating an impact legacy for the Congress in terms of employment of Autistic people, building capacity within the Autistic community, tackling misinformation and promoting accessibility

Secure attendance at 20th anniversary event and launch of insights report Loneliness: What Ireland’s Young People Are Telling Us, informing them of our work and gain support for spunout activities in future.