Munster Rugby Support Rehab Group For 75th Anniversary

Ireland’s leading disability organisation, Rehab Group founded in 1949 is proudly celebrating its 75th anniversary on this International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD), Tuesday, December 3rd.

This milestone highlights a legacy of inclusion, empowerment, and innovation for thousands of people with disabilities and their families for over seven decades.

From its humble beginnings in 1949, when Rehab opened its first rehabilitation workshop on Dublin’s Pleasants Street to support people recovering from tuberculosis, Rehab has grown into Ireland’s largest disability organisation.

Over the past 75 years, it has expanded its reach to every county, and now provides vital services to 12,800 adults, children, and their families annually. This remarkable growth reflects a steadfast commitment to breaking down barriers and championing inclusion, cementing Rehab’s role as a cornerstone of support for individuals with disabilities across Ireland.

Rehab is launching a unique initiative to mark this historic occasion, the “75 Voices” campaign – a compelling tribute to the voices and stories shaping the organisation and the disability community.

The “75 Voices Mosaic” is a unique initiative that features 75 personal stories from individuals with disabilities, their families, caregivers and advocates. This digital installation celebrates the resilience, achievements, and diverse perspectives of the community while showcasing Rehab’s enduring commitment to fostering equality and inclusion.

Munster Rugby, Rehab Group’s charity partner, supported the launch to mark Rehab’s historic year and International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which falls on December 3rd every year.

Players Fineen Wycherley, Oli Jager, Beth Buttimer and Caitriona Finn came out to Thomond Park to support Rehab Group on this major milestone.

Munster’s Fineen Wycherley, Beth Buttimer, CEO of Rehab Group, Barry McGinn, Caitriona Finn. Adrian Allen RehabCare Service User, Oli Jager, Yolanda Baig National Learning Network student.

The collaboration highlights the powerful role of teamwork in fostering a society where everyone can thrive. With the iconic Thomond Park as the backdrop, the event symbolised the unity and determination driving change for people with disabilities across Ireland.

Seán McMahon, Head of Communications with Munster Rugby, said, “We are honoured to support Rehab Group in celebrating 75 years of life-changing work. The values of teamwork, perseverance, and inclusion resonate deeply with Munster Rugby, and we are proud to support this incredible milestone and the ongoing efforts to create opportunities for all members of our community.”

Barry McGinn, CEO of Rehab Group, said: “Since its inception, Rehab has been at the forefront of the campaign to place disability rights firmly on the national agenda . The very foundations of Rehab challenged the almost universally held belief that people with disabilities were incapable of entering the workforce in large numbers. Over the years, our work has evolved and changed, but what has stayed the same is our dedication to being advocates, allies, and champions for individuals and families.

“Over the past 75 years, Rehab has been a catalyst for transformation, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives through the provision of high-quality care, education and employment services. The ’75 Voices Mosaic’ is not only a celebration of the people who make up our organisation but a powerful reminder of the voices that inspire us to build a more inclusive future.”

This year’s IDPWD theme is ‘Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future’. This aligns perfectly with Rehab’s vision of empowering individuals to thrive and play meaningful roles in their communities. By amplifying the voices and experiences of people with disabilities through the mosaic, Rehab continues its dedication to promoting awareness, understanding, and advocacy.

“The ‘75 Voices campaign’ allows people to explore and understand the stories behind the people we work with who have seen their lives transformed. The world has changed dramatically over the last 75 years, and our approach to disability services has transformed with it.”

“As Rehab celebrates its 75th anniversary, it can look back on a legacy of impact and a future of creating even more opportunities for people, regardless of ability, to thrive, achieve and reach their personal goals” Mr McGinn concluded.

Rehab Group’s 75 Voices mosaic can be explored here.