I propose to take Questions Nos. 338 and 359 together.
I assume Deputy Farrelly is referring to the physical and sensory disability sector in this instance. In response to the Deputies' questions, there are a number of issues which I am glad to have the opportunity to clarify.
This year, additional funding of just under €40 million has been provided for the maintenance and development of health related support services for people with physical and sensory disabilities. This funding has been directed at a number of areas including €12.7 million for the full year cost of 2001 developments; €7.56 million for the development of home supports, therapies and other priorities as identified at local level; €6.411 million towards the under-resourcing of voluntary sector service providers; and €9.3 million for capital projects under the national development plan.
This level of investment brings the total additional funding which has been provided by this Government between 1997 and 2002 for the physical and sensory disability sector to just over €175 million.
Each year, my Department endeavours to acquire the required level of funding for the health services by means of the Estimates process. At present, in terms of the physical sensory disability sector, it is difficult to estimate the precise levels of need. This is due to a lack of information on the numbers of people who are currently requiring health and personal social services. The national physical and sensory disability database, which I recently launched, will provide this information and develop an accurate picture of the levels and types of services which are required. This information will assist in the accurate assessment of the levels of funding required and will facilitate effective targeting of resources at the areas which require development.