Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2013
489. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health if he will support the joint pre-budget submission by organisations (details supplied) that clearly show that cuts are affecting persons with an intellectual disability and-or autism in a multitude of ways; if he will ensure that all Government Departments start making persons with a disability a priority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44149/13]
View answerIt is not possible to predict the service levels to be provided next year for the disability sector until the completion of the HSE's National Service Plan for 2014.
The National Disability Strategy Implementation Plan calls to action all individuals, organisations, local and national Government to think positively about disability. It is a collaborative effort and an open invitation to the community and voluntary sectors to work creatively together with statutory agencies and government departments to improve the lives of people with disabilities over the next three years. It is an opportunity to build on the progress achieved by the Strategy to date and ensure going forward that people with disabilities have more choice and control in their lives, can reach their full potential and can participate in the every day life of the community.
The Department of Justice and Equality is the lead department in ensuring a coordinated, whole of government approach in delivering on the commitments set out in the Plan and to consistently promote equality for people with disabilities in both mainstream and disability specific services.
