Courts / Dublin / Report

Man with Down Syndrome challenges failure to assess him for social housing

Date
2024-04-29
Stage
Hearing Or Decision
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

David Johnstone, a 40‑year‑old man with Down Syndrome who lives with his family in Cabinteely, has filed a High Court challenge against Dun Laoghaire‑Rathdown Council. He seeks an order forcing the council to carry out a social housing assessment that meets the 2009 Housing Act. Johnstone says he can manage most basic needs but requires full‑time assistance to live safely and independently. He has been seeking assessment for over a decade and claims the council failed to identify suitable support after deeming him eligible in 2012. He argues this delay breaches his rights and the state's obligations. The case was granted permission by Ms Justice Niamh Hyland on an ex‑parte basis and is set to return to court next month. The proceedings involve the Minister for Housing, the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability Integration and Youth, and the Attorney General.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Man with Down Syndrome challenges failure to assess him for social housing. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

Case subjects

David Johnstone

Applicant

Down Syndrome

Applicant

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • High Court
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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