Rory O'Hanlon
Question:122 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health the current status of the health centre at Cootehill, County Cavan; when work will commence on the centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2226/97]
Written Answers. - Health Services.
Limerick East): As the Deputy is aware, the provision of health centres is a matter for the health boards in the first instance.
The North-Eastern Health Board submitted a list of health centre priority projects for development to my Department, including a proposal for a health care unit in Cootehill, County Cavan. I understand from the board that the project in Cootehill is at design stage of planning and that a planning application will be lodged shortly with Cavan County Council. Progress on this project will be subject to planning permission being received and available capital funding.
The question of funding for health centre priorities in 1997 is currently under consideration in my Department and a decision will be communicated to the health boards in the near future.
Michael Smith
Question:123 Mr. M. Smith asked the Minister for Health if he will provide funds for the establishment of day resource centres, income support services and respite and aid appliances for the Irish Wheelchair Association in north Tipperary. [2254/97]
Michael Smith
Question:124 Mr. M. Smith asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that a significant increase is made in the funds for community-based services to serve the Irish Wheelchair Association. [2255/97]
Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 123 and 124 together.
The funding of voluntary bodies providing services to people with physical disabilities is primarily a matter for health boards which make grants to such organisations under section 65 of the Health Act, 1953. Decisions concerning the level of grants are made in the context of a wide range of relevant factors, including an assessment of existing services and the role of individual voluntary agencies in providing services locally. I understand that discussions are ongoing between the Mid-Western Health Board and the Irish Wheelchair Association regarding the provision of services in that board's area, including north Tipperary. In 1996, health boards made grants amounting to over £1.4 million to the Irish Wheelchair Association for its services.
I am making available an additional £1 million for the development of new services for people with physical disabilities through the health boards in 1997. In line with the recommendations of the review group on health and personal social services for people with physical and sensory disabilities, Towards an Independent Future, this will include the development of community-based support services such as day care places, respite care facilities, home support services and aids and appliances for people with disabilities.
Towards an Independent Future also recommends that funding deficits for existing services be addressed. An additional £2.188 million was built into the health board allocations in 1997 to help put the services on a more secure financial footing and to enable some services initiated in 1996 to be further developed, including services provided by voluntary organisations. Of this, £350,000 is being provided in respect of Irish Wheelchair Association services.