Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Nov 1996

Vol. 471 No. 2

Written Answers. - Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities.

Liam Fitzgerald

Question:

68 Mr. L. Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to statements at a seminar entitled Disability and Employment - a Comparison Between Ireland and the Netherlands, where one of the many views expressed was to the effect that, if there was time, we should develop an employment strategy for people with disabilities who cannot work in full-time open employment but are willing and able to work if given support; if he will comment on this and other views expressed and on the comparisons and contrasts which were highlighted between Ireland and the Netherlands, in terms of our commitment to developing such a strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20545/96]

Minister for Health (Mr. Noonan,

Limerick East): The seminar to which the Deputy refers was organised by the National Rehabilitation Board as part of the discussion which is currently taking place in Ireland about the most appropriate way forward for the training and employment of persons with a disability. The Netherlands is a country which has had considerable experience in this regard particularly in the area of supported-sheltered employment. The seminar was intended to provide a valuable opportunity for an exchange of ideas and information as part of this review.

As part of the development of new employment strategies in Ireland the Department of Health and the NRB are currently engaged in a number of initiatives. My Department is currently reviewing the current provision and structure of all training for people with disabilities with a view to developing a policy statement on the future direction of training in Ireland. As part of this process submissions have been invited from all interested parties, including people with disabilities, training agencies and trainers.

The National Advisory Committee on Training and Employment set up by the NRB has two steering committees addressing the issues of open employment and sheltered-supported employment. The terms of reference for the committee addressing sheltered-supported employment includes a review of the international experience in this area. Both reports will be completed in 1997.