Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Jun 2003

Vol. 568 No. 1

Written Answers. - Services for People with Disabilities.

Richard Bruton

Question:

485 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children his investment plan for the development of residential services for children in the autistic spectrum on the northside of Dublin; if he has satisfied himself that placement of children in the autistic spectrum within services providing for mental health, is offering these children the full and appropriate services which they need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15177/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O'Malley)

The identification of priority needs for service development, including services to persons with autism, and the provision of support services is a matter for the relevant health board. In the case of north Dublin this would be the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the Northern Area Health Board.

The overall investment in recent years by this and the previous Government in services to persons with disabilities, which amounts to €555 million, is evidence of the priority given to these services. Around €340 million of the €555 million has been invested in services for persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism.

At this stage I cannot give specific commitments in relation to levels of expenditure in 2004 for any service area as these matters are part of the ongoing discussions on the Estimates and budget for that year between my Department and the Department of Finance.