asked the Minister for Health the total number of mentally handicapped children awaiting admission to residential institutions at the end of March 1970.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Mentally Handicapped Children.
4.
At 31st March, 1970 there were 869 mentally handicapped children, under 16 years of age, awaiting admission to residential centres. This figure includes children who are mildly, moderately and severely handicapped. It must be borne in mind that with the development of services on a day basis many children, especially the mildly handicapped, are being catered for in the community. When presenting the Estimates for my Department for the present financial year on 8th April last, I outlined the steps which are being taken to provide additional places for the mentally handicapped who need residential care. When these additional places are available, the waiting period for admission to residential care should no longer be a significant problem.
(Cavan): Can the Minister say, in terms of time, when he thinks the waiting list, which at the moment is quite unreasonable, will be reduced to a reasonable level?
I have already given particulars of that on several occasions in the House but let me repeat once more that there are 1,500 places being provided which will cater for 869 mentally handicapped here, less those who are mildly handicapped, in institutions for the severely and moderately handicapped, where children require residential care. We will also provide for persons who although they have reached the age of 16 years are incapable of working and are in need of care in institutions. I have said that the plans are going ahead as rapidly as possible. There is no hindrance in any way by my Department to the completion of plans which involve plans for buildings or extensions and for the training of teachers and it will take two or three years to complete the programme.