Selina was great advocate for independent living

A TRIBUTES poured in this week for Selina Bonnie, an activist for disabled people’s rights.

A Ballyfermot resident, Ms Bonnie was a Disability Liaison, Access and Equality Officer with South Dublin County Council and well respected for her work in the sector.

A funeral service took place on Monday for Ms Bonnie, who passed away on January 7 in the care of staff at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown.

Many condolences were posted on RIP.ie, including from Kevin Dempsey at the Irish Wheelchair Association who said Selina was a “great advocate for independent living and will be sadly missed by all who knew her in the Irish Wheelchair Association and in particular the Leader Service.”

Lucan Disability Action Group said Selina was a “truly beautiful, kind, and wise lady, dedicating herself tirelessly to the cause of disability and inclusion rights.”

“Her impactful work has transformed countless lives, a testament to her great credit, and she leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered with gratitude by all of us,” said the group.

Among those expressing their condolences were councillors Charlie O’Connor (FF), Eoin Ó Broin (SocDems), and Francis Timmons (Ind).

Prior to starting with South Dublin County Council more than 20 years ago, Selina was based in the NGO sector as an activist for disabled people’s rights.

Speaking to The Echo in 2021 Selina said she “always believed that lobbying and campaigning is important but at some stage you have to become the change maker.”

“I have a lived experience as a wheelchair user but I’m conscious to always bring in the lived experiences of people with other impairments,” said Selina.

Selina is survived by her husband Robert and daughter Saira Noor.