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Services for People with Disabilities

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Questions (374, 406)

David Stanton

Question:

374. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Social Protection her policy in relation to assisting those with autism and or autistic spectrum disorders to access employment opportunities, particularly in the context of announcements by various multinational companies regarding ASD persons and their intention to target the ASD community for these jobs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26770/13]

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David Stanton

Question:

406. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Social Protection the services her Department provides that take account of the needs of the autistic community; and if she is considering modifying criteria for benefits to take account of the needs of those with autism and or autistic spectrum disorders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26769/13]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 406 together.

My Department provides a range of income and employment supports for people with disabilities including those with autism. The disability allowance (DA) represents an important income support to people who are unfit for work. Also, domiciliary care allowance (DCA) represents a very important support to parents and guardians who live with, and care for, children with a disability.

However, eligibility on medical conditions, for any illness-related benefit/allowance will depend on the severity and expected duration of the condition, and in the case of carers the care requirements. All applications are assessed on a claim-by-claim basis.

In regard to employment support, the Department’s supported employment programme operated under the “EmployAbility” banner provides the services of a job-coach for those wishing to take up employment opportunities. Other relevant supports would include the wage subsidy scheme and the work equipment adaptation grant. I encourage private sector employers to avail of these supports to increase the participation rates of people with disabilities in the labour market.

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