People with a disability are twice as likely to experience poverty and deprivation in Ireland. That is according to research from Inclusion Ireland.
The association for people with an intellectual disability says the government should "act on its own advice".
It is 10 years since the National Disability Authority (NDA) recommended a cost of disability payment.
Speaking ahead of a conference presenting the new research, Inclusion Ireland CEO Paddy Connolly said "There is substantial evidence that the additional, essential and recurring costs of having a disability can place a household at significant risk of poverty and deprivation."
"The research being presented at Inclusion Ireland's conference highlights how the cost of disability in Ireland is considerable and has a significant negative impact on the living standards of the disabled and their families."
It suggests that current policy in Ireland does not go far enough in addressing the impact of these extra costs.
The 'Cost of Disability' conference will hear evidence of growing inequalities experienced by people with a disability.
Mr Connolly added "People with a disability are twice as likely to experience poverty and official measures of poverty do not capture the additional costs of disability."
"Families tell Inclusion Ireland of making stark choices to meet the needs of their children with a disability."
Mr Connolly gave examples of one parent having to choose between heating oil or therapies for her son, while another talked of borrowing from family members to pay for therapies.
