Elaine Teague Biography

For the past two years I have served as Chief Executive Officer of the Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI). In this role I work with a large and diverse membership. Our Vision is an Ireland where disabled people shape their own lives and take part in their communities with equality, inclusion, and independence. DFI is pan disability, working with disabled people and people with disabling conditions. Our values are Respect, Inclusion, Fairness, Empowerment and Collaboration. We have 120 member organisations spread across every part of Ireland. DFI plays an active role with EDF, including current participation on the Board and the Membership and Credentials Committee. As National Council we have co-hosted EDF Board meetings in Ireland, contributed to EU policy development, and actively participated in EDF forums and initiatives.

My professional career has been rooted in supporting the realisation of disability rights in practice. Prior to joining DFI, I worked as a Director of Service with responsibility for delivering services and supports grounded in human rights principles. This experience has given me a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in translating the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) into meaningful change in people’s lives.

I bring both governance experience and a deep commitment to collaborative leadership. I have five years’ experience serving on a Board of Directors and understand the responsibilities, accountability and collective decision-making that strong governance requires. I believe EDF plays a critical role in ensuring that disabled people’s voices are heard at European level and that the UNCRPD continues to guide policy and practice across Member States.

If elected, I would bring energy, commitment and a strong partnership approach to the Board. I value working with others to find solutions, strengthening connections between national disability movements and European advocacy, and ensuring EDF continues to be a strong and united voice for disability rights.

It would be a privilege to contribute to EDF’s work and to support the organisation in advancing equality and human rights for disabled people across Europe.