To meet in an appropriate manner the spectrum of different needs within the population of persons with an intellectual disability, it is necessary to provide a broad range of services. This includes both community-based residential, respite, day and other support services, in addition to a similar range of services provided by the residential centres around the country. The emphasis has been and will continue to be on the development of community-based support services which enable individuals with an intellectual disability to remain for as long as possible within their local community. However, there is also a need to ensure that for those who have been assessed as requiring the supports which are available in residential centres or village type accommodation, the appropriate facilities are also available for them.