Vol. 398 No. 8
157 Mr. Crowley asked the Minister for Health the number of physically handicapped people currently employed in private industry in the north west region of Cork; and the steps he is taking to provide training courses and/or jobs for physically handicapped people in this area.
It is not possible to be precise in relation to the number of physically handicapped people employed in the North West Region of Cork because many physically handicapped persons who secure employment themselves or through family contacts or who become disabled at work and are retained in employment are not officially recorded. However, 27 physically disabled persons registered with the National Rehabilitation Board were placed into private industry in the region in the years 1987 to 1989.
The National Rehabilitation Board provides a specialised assessment, counselling, placement and follow-up service for all disabled persons. Following vocational assessment, disabled persons are referred to specialised training centres in Cork city, Tralee or Bantry. Where appropriate they are referred for FÁS training or on-job training is arranged for them.
