Michael Healy-Rae
Question:151. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding waiting lists for assistance dogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49702/17]
View answerThursday, 23 November 2017
Questions (151, 152)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:152. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the number of persons (details supplied) waiting for assistance dogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49703/17]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 152 together.
The Department of Health does not commission the provision or training of assistance/service dogs for children or adults with disabilities. The Health Service Executive's (HSE's) focus is on the protection of core activities such as residential, respite, day and core-therapy provision. Provision of assistance/service dogs to people with a disability is not considered a core health service and is not prioritised for funding by the HSE.
However, I would suggest that the Deputy might consider contacting the organisation Irish Dogs for the Disabled at www.dogsfordisabled.ie which may be able to provide him with additional information on the matter.