Vol. 543 No. 1
79 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure that the funding of intellectual disability services in the east coast area continues at similar levels to the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24833/01]
As the Deputy is aware, the Government gave a commitment to a three-year accelerated programme of investment, commencing in 2000, in services to persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism. In the subsequent two-year period, additional revenue and capital funding amounting to £151.7 million, 192.62 million, has been made available nationally to the services.
As the Estimates discussions in relation to 2002 are still under way, I am not in a position at this point in time to comment on any specific plans for the health services in that year. I would, however, like to assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to the ongoing expansion of the support services required by persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism.
