Disability Support Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 July 2016

Wednesday, 20 July 2016

Questions (338, 339)

Margaret Murphy O'Mahony

Question:

338. Deputy Margaret Murphy O'Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on the occupational therapy first-time assessment waiting list and within that the number waiting fewer than four months, waiting four to 12 months and waiting more than 12 months; and for each category the number waiting who are zero to four years of age, five to 17 years of age, 18 to 64 years of age and 65 years of age plus, for each local health area, in tabular form. [23265/16]

Margaret Murphy O'Mahony

Question:

339. Deputy Margaret Murphy O'Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on the occupational therapy treatment waiting list and within that the numbers waiting fewer than four months, waiting four to 12 months and waiting more than 12 months; and for each category the number waiting who are zero to four years of age, five to 17 years of age, 18 to 64 years of age and aged 65 plus, for each local health area, in tabular form. [23266/16]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

I propose to take Questions Nos. 338 and 339 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.

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, she can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.