Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Jun 2000

Vol. 522 No. 3

Written Answers. - Personal Assistance Service.

Seán Ryan

Question:

62 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the crisis now facing the personal assistant service which operates through the Irish Wheelchair Association due to the very low levels of pay for personal assistants which has led to the departure of many people from the service; if, in view of the vital importance of this service to many people with disabilities, he will enter into discussions with the health boards with a view to providing an adequate pay structure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18550/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin):

The provision of health and personal social services, including personal assistance services, is a matter for the relevant health board.

I am aware that problems in recruiting and retaining personal assistants to maintain the current level of service provision have recently arisen in the personal assistance service provided by the Irish Wheelchair Association on behalf of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. I am pleased to advise you that, given the exceptional circumstances involved, I have approved the provision of additional funding to the authority this year to resolve this matter.