My Department's proposals in relation to the National Development Plan 2000-2006 take account of the needs of people with disabilities. A major feature of Government policy in relation to social inclusion is to ensure people with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate fully in all aspects of society. In the health field, various programmes which are responsive to the needs of people with disabilities are provided by the State via health boards and the voluntary sector. To maintain this Government's commitment to people with disabilities, I have pointed out that funding must be maintained at least at its present level, with substitution of Exchequer funding where appropriate, in the case of cessation or reduction in EU support.