Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Jun 2001

Vol. 539 No. 2

Written Answers. - Budget Submissions.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

118 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the concerns expressed by the Irish Wheelchair Association (details supplied) in the pre-budget 2002 submission; and if each of their concerns will be addressed. [19132/01]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Disability allowance and carers allowance are a matter for the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs.

In relation to mobility allowance, the Deputy will wish to know that my Department is currently undertaking an examination of the disability related allowances which comes under its aegis and are administered by the health boards. In this context, issues relating to the mobility allowance are being considered.

In relation to resource centres, my Department is in consultation with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment concerning the mainstreaming of the FÁS community employment schemes for the provision of essential health services.

The provision of services, including day care services, is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards in the context of available funding and in consultation with their regional co-ordinating committees for physical and sensory disability services. The Irish Wheelchair Association is represented on each of their co-ordinating committees.