Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2016
546. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Health why respite care for persons over 18 years of age ceased, despite the needs of the caring families being the same as previously; his plans to reintroduce respite for carers of adults; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20902/16]
View answer547. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Health the supports or resources made available for the provision of respite for persons over 18 years of age in each of the years 2012 to 2016 to date, in tabular form. [20903/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 546 and 547 together.
The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability.
As the Deputy's questions relate to service matters, I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, he can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.
