Vol. 399 No. 7
20 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied with the employment options open to physically handicapped people; in particular, if he has any plans to make representations to other Government Departments and the public bodies generally concerning this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The employment options for physically handicapped people depend to a large extent on the quality of vocational training received. In this regard I am satisfied with the services being provided. There is now a nationwide network of specialised vocational training centres providing training in a wide variety of skills. In addition the vocational service operated by the National Rehabilitation Board throughout the country provides a specialised assessment, counselling, placement and follow-up service. There is active co-operation between the NRB and FÁS in the placement of handicapped people in employment. In 1989, over 900 disabled people registered with the NRB were placed in employment.
Employment in the public service under the quota scheme for disabled persons is a matter for the Department of Labour who chair an interdepartmental committee which monitor the scheme. That Department consult with other Government Departments on the operation of the scheme.
Recently the central review committee under the Programme for National Recovery recommend a number of new measures which are specifically designed to provide additional jobs for people with a disability.
