Respite Care Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 May 2017

Tuesday, 30 May 2017

Questions (479)

Eugene Murphy

Question:

479. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Health the number of persons currently on a waiting list to date in 2017 to avail of respite services operated by a charity (details supplied) in the north east County Galway area; the number of weekend respite places available in its facilities in the north east County Galway area on a monthly basis in 2017; the criteria and catchment area used to determine the way in which weekend respite places are allocated by the charity in the north east County Galway area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25768/17]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

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 question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.