asked the Minister for Health if he can clarify certain disturbing reports that a reduced level of funding from the ESF may jeopardise the present level of services for the handicapped provided by the North Western Health Board; if he can clarify this situation in the light of the 20 per cent increase in the ESF allocation to Ireland this year; and if he will give an assurance that the present level of services for the disabled provided by the North Western Health Board will not be endangered.
Written Answers. - Services for the Handicapped.
61.
The amount of money to be allocated to health boards, including the North Western Health Board, in respect of the 1985 European Social Fund applications on behalf of the handicapped has not yet been finally determined by the European Commission. Pending a decision by the Commission in this regard it is not possible to assess what effects, if any, the level of ESF funds will have on services for the handicapped provided by the North Western Health Board.