Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 1

Written Answers. - Medical Rehabilitation.

Seán Barrett

Question:

142 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consider the provision of extra support services as a matter of urgency in view of the fact the number of people requiring rehabilitation treatment in the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Dún Laoghaire, is increasing dramatically, rehabilitation treatment is required for longer periods and facilities and initiatives to support these people and their families and carers on their return to the community have been scarce in the past; and the plans, if any, for their implementation. [7370/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) Development Plan 1999-2005, sets out the ration ale for the development of the NRH as a national centre for specialist medical rehabilitation. The plan identifies requirements for the development and expansion of its rehabilitation services including an expansion of beds from 123 to 160, the modernisation of buildings and facilities, more intensive use of existing facilities as well as additional staff resources. The plan also proposes the development of a comprehensive out-patient service as well as "step-down" facilities.

This plan is under consideration by my Department, in the context of the overall development of services for people with physical and sensory disabilities, in conjunction with the report of the Review Group on Health and Personal Services to People with Physical and Sensory Disabilities, Towards an Independent Future and the report of the National Advisory Committee of Medical Rehabilitation.

The Government is committed to the development of services in this sector and, in line with our commitments under Partnership 2000, developments will be progressed within overall expenditure parameters.