Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 October 2016
354. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health if he will make the funding available to St. John of God Kerry services in order that they can build the required additional houses on the existing site in Beaufort, County Kerry, according to HIQA requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29241/16]
View answer355. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health if he will officially recognise St. Mary of the Angels, Beaufort, County Kerry, as a community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29242/16]
View answer356. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Health when residents are moved out of a place such as St. Mary of the Angels, the body or person which has ownership of the site and houses left behind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29243/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 354 to 356, inclusive, 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 HSE’s report “Time to Move on from Congregated Settings - A Strategy for Community Inclusion”, (2011) proposes a new model of support in the community by moving people from institutional settings to the community. The plan is being rolled out at a regional and local level and involves full consultation with stakeholders.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to continue to move people with disabilities out of congregated settings, to enable them to live independently and to be included in the community.
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.
