asked the Minister for Health if he will indicate the support by the Government for the mentally handicapped in Ireland.
Written Answers. - Mentally Handicapped.
99.
In 1989 approximately £120 million will be spent on services for the mentally handicapped under the Health Vote. In addition services specifically for the mentally handicapped will be provided under the auspices of other Government Departments, for example, special schools and classes provided by the Department of Education. I regard all of these services as priority services and since I took up office I have ensured that the resources devoted to them have been protected in real terms. The services provided by agencies under the aegis of the Department of Health include assessment and early intervention, cash allowances, day care, vocational training, long-term training, hostels and houses, and residential centres.