Family Support Services.

Wednesday, 27 September 2006

Questions (520)

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

569 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on a project (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28139/06]

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Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

Lifestart is a home based programme offered to parents of children from birth to five years with the aim of providing families with developmental and educational information delivered in the home by trained Family Visitors.

I understand that Lifestart Donegal is a partnership of three projects delivering the Lifestart Programme and complementary initiatives to parents in various areas throughout Donegal and that 1,222 children availed of the service in 2005.

I understand that the Health Service Executive who have responsibility for the provision of family support services such as Lifestart are providing ongoing funding for the Lifestart projects in Donegal. A recent evaluation of the Lifestart projects in Donegal indicated that the programme has been well received in the areas where it is available and highly regarded by professionals working in these areas.