Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 April 2017
619. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health the number of respite beds available for persons with intellectual disabilities under 18 years of age and over 18 years of age, respectively, by location, county and organisation or service provider for each of the past three years. [18189/17]
View answer620. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if respite beds are designated for each age cohort or otherwise used by rotation; and, if so, the rotation timetable. [18190/17]
View answer621. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health the number of persons seeking respite by location and county for each of the past three years; if such respite was actually availed of; if not, the reason therefor; the number of persons who have yet to be offered such respite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18191/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 619 to 621, 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 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.
