Vol. 471 No. 4
80 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Health if he has received a commitment from his Cabinet colleagues that the findings of the Review Group on Services for People with Physical and Sensory Disabilities will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20624/96]
Limerick East): As the report of the review group is being finalised, its recommendations have not yet been submitted to the Government for consideration. As the Deputy is aware, the Government is committed to developing services for people with physical and sensory disabilities. The health strategy Shaping a Healthier Future has been endorsed by the Government in A Government of Renewal, and forms the basis of its health care programme. The strategy includes a four-year action plan which refers specifically to the development of services for people with physical and sensory disabilities, subject to the recommendations of the report of the review group.
The Deputy will note also that the last few years have seen significant developments and improvements in the provision of health and personal support services for people with physical and sensory disabilities. Since 1993, additional resources have been built into the base funding for these services. This has resulted in there being £6 million more revenue this year than there was prior to 1993. In the last two years, capital funding of £4.55 million has also been provided for the development of services.
