Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Jun 2000

Vol. 522 No. 4

Written Answers. - Sheltered Work Provisions.

Ulick Burke

Question:

124 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to heighten the focus on codes of practice and standards applicable to people with disabilities in sheltered work in County Galway; the number of people in such employment within the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18814/00]

John Perry

Question:

125 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to heighten the focus on codes of practice and standards applicable to people with disabilities within sheltered employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18829/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 124 and 125 together.

I assume both questions relate to the codes of practice and standards applicable to people with disabilities within sheltered work provisions.

In this connection, the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness states that:

the Department of Health and Children will focus on the development of a suitable training policy document for persons with a disability, in consultation with the social partners and people with disabilities, embracing the appropriate recommendations of the NACTE report and the introduction of a code of practice for the operation of sheltered workshops.

In this context, the working group on a code of practice for sheltered workshops will become operational immediately. The code will address workplace conditions and relations and specifically, contractual status and remuneration.

My Department has received nominations from the health boards, people with disabilities, voluntary organisations providing services to people with disabilities and the social partners for participation on this committee. It is intended that this committee will commence its work next month.

With regard to the number of people with disabilities within sheltered work provisions in County Galway, I have requested the chief executive officer of the Western Health Board to investigate this matter and reply directly to Deputy Burke supplying this information as a matter of urgency.