Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
404. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth how his Department is liaising with the Minister for Education and the Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion in the matter of associated services at a school (details supplied) in the context of the mooted moving of services provided by an organisation to the HSE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9060/24]
View answerSt John of God Community Services provide essential disability and mental health supports to 8,000 people across the country. The Government recognises that they are a valued long-term partner in delivering publicly funded services.
In recent years, the HSE has worked intensively with the organisation throughout a Sustainability Impact Assessment process to address financial and operational sustainability challenges. The Government’s clear preference is for St John of God Community Services to continue to provide these services, if that is possible.
Most recently, the HSE, with the backing of the Departments, has reaffirmed a strong commitment to support its service provision. As recently as February 15th the HSE CEO set out an extensive package on offer to St John of God, in addition to the €200m being provided to the organisation annually.
Notably, the HSE’s financial projections indicate that the service provider will achieve a breakeven position in 2024, as it has done every year since 2019.
The CEO of the HSE has met directly with representatives of the Board and Executive of St John of God to explore the potential for a resolution of the serious challenges identified. Engagement between the parties is ongoing so it is important that we give every opportunity for an outcome that would avoid a transfer of services.
St Raphael's School is a school for pupils with moderate, severe or profound general learning disabilities and is located on St Raphael's Campus. The school currently has 96 children enrolled.
As outlined above, the HSE assures all those supported and their families that the services provided are safe and fully protected.
