Cecilia Keaveney
Question:179 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Health and Children the current programmes focused specifically for the mentally disabled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15112/04]
View answerThursday, 20 May 2004
Questions (179)
Written answers
There are a very broad range of health funded support services available to people with intellectual disability. These include the following: assessment and diagnosis services, early intervention services, multidisciplinary support services, residential services, respite services, day services, rehabilitative training, home support services and home help services.
Residential services would include a range of options such as five or seven day care, emergency care, shared care options, supported or independent living options. Specialist support services, including residential and day services, would also be provided for those who require a more intensive level of support. The primary focus since the 1970s has been to deliver these services locally, where possible, to enable persons with intellectual disability to continue to live with their families and/or local communities.
Services for people with disabilities is one of a number of areas to which additional revenue funding has been provided by the Government in any Department over 2003 and 2004. In respect of services to persons with intellectual disability and those with autism, this revenue funding, amounting to €43 million up to the end of 2004, was specifically provided to meet costs associated with the provision of emergency residential placements, extra day services for young adults leaving school and to enhance the health related support services for children. In total, additional revenue and capital funding amounting to €388 million has been provided for services to persons with intellectual disability and those with autism since 1997.