Leigh Gath, the well-known disability campaigner and survivor of Thalidomide, died unexpectedly at her home on Saturday.
In a statement, the Health Service Executive (HSE) paid tribute to Ms Gath, who was the first office holder of the then-new position of confidential recipient.
She was appointed the HSE’s first confidential recipient in late 2014 following the Áras Attracta abuse scandal covered by a RTÉ Prime Time Investigates programme. Broadcast in late 2014, the programme raised concerns about the treatment of some residents at the Áras Attracta centre for adults with intellectual disabilities in Co Mayo.
Ms Gath remained in the recipient role until September 2022 and saw through many changes in building and adapting that role, and challenging the HSE to develop much more robust structures and processes for people who experience vulnerability in their lives.
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Over many years Ms Gath campaigned for equality on many fronts, particularly for people living with disability.
Speaking on the news of her death, Bernard Gloster, chief executive of the HSE, said he was “very privileged” to know Ms Gath professionally and personally over several years.
“She achieved many great things and always for the benefit of others. She gave a voice to many who otherwise were silent, and she challenged all professionals and organisations and governments to think differently. Leigh was never defined by her own disability,” he said.
“When the serious work was done for a day, she was always great fun to bump into and would lift the mood of those who encountered her.
“To Eugene, Karl, and Aisling, we in the HSE as Leigh’s friends and former colleagues, extend our deepest sympathy. She was a unique person perhaps best described in the title of her book Don’t Tell Me I Can’t. May her kind soul rest in peace.”
She will repose at St Mary’s Church in Pallaskenry, Co Limerick, on Tuesday, with her funeral taking place on Wednesday.
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