Minister pays fond tribute to Mayo disability advocate Avril Greham

Minister Dara Calleary has paid tribute to disability advocate Avril Greham, Ballina, whose death has taken place.

He stated: "Some people make a difference through what they say, but others make a difference through what they do, the lives they touch and the changes they help bring about.

"Avril Greham has been one of those people and her loss will be felt across the entire community of Ballina and beyond.

"As a disability advocate, Avril provided a voice to people who too often have not been heard.

"Through her commitment to disability rights, inclusion and equality, she helped highlight the challenges faced by people with disabilities and the importance of ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society.

"Advocacy is not simply about speaking up. It is about listening, understanding, challenging barriers and ensuring that people are treated with dignity, respect and fairness.

"It is about recognising ability rather than focusing on disability and making sure that every individual is valued for who they are.

"Avril's contribution reminds us that inclusion should never be an afterthought. It should be at the heart of how we build our communities, deliver our services and treat one another.

"Her work represents something much bigger than any one campaign or initiative. It represents the belief that every person deserves to be heard, every family deserves support and every individual deserves the chance to live a life of opportunity, independence and fulfilment.

"Her commitment to community life was selfless and inspiring, and her work as a founding member of Mayo Disabled Persons Organisation, with Ballina Autism Friendly Town, Darkness Into Light, Ballina One-Act Drama Festival, Ballina Community Clean-Up and Ardnaree Sarsfields GAA and so many other organisations will be remembered with immense pride and gratitude by those with whom she worked closely.

"On behalf of all those whose lives she has touched, I acknowledge and sincerely thank Avril for her dedication, her advocacy and her determination to make a difference. A more inclusive society does not happen by accident. It happens because people like Avril are prepared to speak out and make their voices heard.

"Thank you, Avril, for being that voice. You have left a legacy to be proud of. May your kind and gentle soul rest in peace."

Senator Mark Duffy said it was with profound sadness he learned of the passing of Avril Greham.

In a tribute, he said: "Avril has been the beating heart of community life in Mayo for many years and her loss is immensely felt.

"Avril was a passionate voice in advocating for those with disabilities in Mayo and across the country and has made an incredible contribution through her work.

"A volunteer with her local club Ardnaree GAA, Darkness into Light, Ballina 2023, Ballina Community Clean Up, Ballina Autism Friendly Town and as a founding member of the Mayo Disable Person Organisation to name just a few.

"Avril approached every challenge and issue with a spirit of positivity, optimism and can do attitude.

"She has left behind a world that is more accessible, more connected, more empowered and more included because of the work she did.

"Rest in peace Avril, and thank you for everything you have done for us all along the way."