Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2008
328 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the results of the investigation by the Health Service Executive into allegations of exploitation in sheltered workshops for people with intellectual disabilities; the steps which are being taken as a result of this investigation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27076/08]
View answerI am not aware of any specific investigation of the kind mentioned by the Deputy. The Health Service Executive (HSE) is currently undertaking a National Review of HSE funded adult day services. This review includes sheltered workshops. The Review's terms of reference are to advise on the reconfiguration and modernisation of existing Adult Day Services to reflect the core principles of the Health Strategy — Access, Quality, Accountability and Person Centredness — to incorporate the following approach: Best Practice; Good value for money; Better outcomes for services users in line with relevant legislation and national standards.
This process aims to produce a recommended service model/s that is reflective of these principles. The work of the Review is well underway and a report is due by the Autumn.
In tandem with the HSE Review, the Office for Disability and Mental Health is also actively working with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment towards improving and developing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
