asked the Minister for Health when he will publish a White Paper on the report of the Commission on Mental Handicap; and if, having regard to the urgency of the matter, he will now outline what progress will be made during the next five years.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mental Handicap.
66.
I hope to be in a position to publish a White Paper on the services for the mentally handicapped in a few months time. The White Paper will set out in full the Government's decision in regard to the various recommendations of the Commission, but the development of services is not being held up pending the publication of the White Paper. As I pointed out to the House on the 6th instant the services are being continually developed, considerable improvements have been brought about since the report of the Commission was published, and it is the Government's intention to press ahead with the developments as rapidly as circumstances and resources will permit.
67.
asked the Minister for Health the reason for the delay in giving approval to the proposal of Dublin Health Authority to make premises at Cherry Orchard Hospital available to the National Association for the Mentally Handicapped together with a grant towards the cost of operating the centre; and if he will expedite favourable consideration of the proposal having regard to the urgent need for additional accommodation and facilities for the mentally handicapped.
The delay in this case was caused by the need to consider whether the National Association for the Mentally Handicapped of Ireland was the most appropriate body to provide sheltered workshops and how the proposal would fit in with other proposals which I have received. I have now directed that the proposal of the Dublin Health Authority to lease the premises should be approved. I will also approve the making of a contribution towards the running costs of the centre.