Active Disability Ireland will host its National Conference on 3 December 2025 at The Johnstown Estate, coinciding with the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
This year’s theme, “Influencing & Challenging,” brings together leaders, practitioners and advocates from across Irish sport to explore how inclusion can be strengthened through systemic change, collaboration and everyday practice.
A central feature of the programme will be a panel discussion led by Adam Harris, Founder and CEO of AsIAm, and Ger McTavish, Sport Ireland’s Disability in Sport Lead. Together they will examine how Ireland can drive lasting change by embedding inclusion at every level of the sporting system — from policy and coaching to facilities, culture and community engagement.
Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Charlie McConalogue, will open the day and join in a conversation about the Government’s thinking and commitment in this area.
The conference will also welcome its keynote speaker, Jay Lusted, the Welsh actor, presenter and disability advocate whose work in television and public life continues to challenge perceptions of disability. Lusted’s address is expected to highlight the power of visibility, storytelling and representation in reshaping attitudes both on and off the field of play.
Adding a dynamic and unpredictable element to the day, Rob Hartnett of Sport for Business will take to the stage for “Unscripted Conversations”, interviewing three surprise guests in a live, unrehearsed format designed to bring authentic personal stories to the forefront.
A limited number of tickets are still available to attend what promises to be a special day.
The conference will also feature a broad accessibility and inclusion expo, with vendors and exhibitors showcasing products, technologies and services designed to support physical activity for people with disabilities, from adaptive equipment to programme innovations.
Guiding attendees through the day’s discussions and stories will be MC Joanne Murphy, the respected TriTalkingSport presenter known for her work amplifying athlete voices and championing the belief that sport is for everyone.
With a blend of expert insight, lived experience, and future-focused discussion, the 2025 conference aims to galvanise the sector and inspire practical action, leadership, and collective commitment.
Image Credit: Active Disability Ireland
Further Reading for Sport for Business members:
Read our Sport for Business Coverage of Inclusion
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November 20th – Playing for the Planet – A new event focused on Sustainability in Sport with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport
December 9th – Our 12th Annual Women in Sport Conference in partnership with Lidl.
January – The Sporting Year Ahead 2026 in partnership with Teneo.
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