Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2016
350. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the funding for respite services in County Tipperary, both adult and children, services over the past five years; the number of persons awaiting services in the county; if he will ensure funding for respite services in south Tipperary is increased in budget 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29230/16]
View answer352. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that additional funding will be provided for residential placements for persons with disabilities in budget 2017, with a particular emphasis on placements for dual diagnosis patients as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29235/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 350 and 352 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.
The level of funding available for my Department is being considered as part of the national estimates/budgetary process for 2017, which is currently underway. Pending completion of this process, it is not appropriate for me to comment further at this stage.
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.
