Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2018
374. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if waiting lists, lack of services and funding for persons with a disability will be addressed; the rationale for not including the optional protocol in the ratification of the UNCRPD; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17580/18]
View answerThe 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.
Under the Health Act 2004, responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services rests with the Health Service Executive (HSE). The Government has provided funding of €1.772 billion to the HSE’s Disability Services Programme for 2018. The quantum of services to be provided with that funding, and the key service deliverables and priorities for the Disabilities Services Programme for this year are outlined in the HSE’S National Service Plan for 2018.
As the Deputy’s particular query in respect of waiting lists, service provision and service funding is as service matter for the HSE, I have asked the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy on this issue.
In terms of the ratification of the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCRPD), it should be noted that the Convention and the Optional Protocol cover a broad range of commitments, some of which require substantive cultural change. Work is continuing on the reforms needed for a high level of compliance with the Convention's requirements. In the early implementation phase it is essential that resources are appropriately focussed in the enhancement of services needed for compliance with the Convention. For this reason, a phased approach is seen as the most practical and realistic way of moving ahead. Accordingly the Optional Protocol is not being ratified at this time but will be ratified as soon as possible, at the latest following completion of Ireland's first reporting cycle which will identify any actions needed with regard to compliance with the Convention.
