asked the Minister for Health the proposals, if any, to fund a special care institution for victims of multiple sclerosis and if he is aware of the present pressing need for such a service.
Written Answers. - Multiple Sclerosis.
160.
There are no proposals before my Department to fund a special care in-stituation for persons suffering from multiple sclerosis. I am aware that many of these persons need long-term care and some such facilities are at present being provided in a number of health board and voluntary institutions.
The long-term care of persons suffering from multiple sclerosis is linked with the general problem of the care of physically handicapped persons. Health boards are aware of this problem and in a number of areas consideration is being given to the provision of additional accommodation for the long-term physically handicapped.
161.
asked the Minister for Health the proposals if any, to extend the availability of home helps, particularly with specialist knowledge of multiple sclerosis; and the proposals, if any, regarding the general situation of home helps, including the funding of such assistance which is often vital in the case of multiple sclerosis.
It is my policy to continue to develop the home help scheme as additional funds become available. I would regard it as a high priority in the community care services.
The service is intended to help dependent and incapacitated persons to remain at home but it would not be feasible to provide special home helps to cater for cases of multiple sclerosis.