Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 1997

Vol. 480 No. 6

Written Answers - Centre for Independent Living.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

292 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the imminent closure of the Centre for Independent Living, Tullamore, County Offaly; if his attention has been drawn to the excellent work being carried out by personal assistants from the centre; if his attention has further been drawn to the hardship which would result to many in County Offaly from the closure; if he will allocate sufficient funds to keep the centre open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14884/97]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen):

I recently met representatives of the Centre for Independent Living to discuss general issues, including the development of personal assistance services. I am aware that there was concern a short while ago in the Centre for Independent Living, Tullamore, about the renewal of a FÁS scheme under which the centre provides personal assistants to a number of people with disabilities. FÁS does not come within my remit but I understand that whatever problems were being experienced have been resolved.