It was an odd day.

Money was sloshing around. Promises made. A week’s wages tied up in a big red bow and presented as a gift from Minister Noonan.

The 50c on cigs was the only dark cloud on the horizon. We were ’reaping the rewards’ of our sacrifices during the lean years. Yes, that means they were trying to buy our votes.

You know that already.

You also know that Undaunted has a particular interest in how disabled people are valued as citizens in Ireland. Citizens who want to contribute and not be seen as passive recipients of State charity. Minister Noonan’s tax splurge doesn’t impact on the majority of disabled people because they cannot access employment - and therefore don't pay taxes. It was up to Minister Howlin to deliver the goods.

Let’s be fair here. There are aspects of the Budget which will possibly improve the lives of some disabled people and their families. Free GP care for under-12s, the restoration of respite care, the Christmas bonus, and the promise of more teachers. All of these are welcome but I can’t help thinking is a point being missed?

Let’s get back to the idea of citizenship. A couple of weeks ago, I told you about the protest by disabled people which took place outside the Dáil. Here was a group of disabled citizens wanting to take an active part in society. They want to work. They want to live in the community. They want to pay taxes. But this is where it gets depressing.

It’s obvious the powers that be just don’t get it. They don’t realise disabled people want to work but there might be extra costs involved for us to do so. They don’t realise we want to live independently and this may actually save the State money. It all goes back to the idea that disabled people are ‘vulnerable’. Helping us ticks the ‘vulnerable’ box in Dáil speeches.

Disabled people are there to be cared for. They’re not seen as a ‘serious’ voting block that needs buttering up in pre-Budget elections.

Depressing but true. A budget for all? I think not.