Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 September 2018
506. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Health if the inpatient paediatric unit at the National Rehabilitation Hospital is accepting new referrals; the status of the inpatient paediatric unit; the reason the unit was closed to new referrals; when the unit will be in a position to take new referrals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37469/18]
View answer507. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list in 2017 and to date in 2018 for the inpatient paediatric unit at the National Rehabilitation Hospital; the steps being taken to address growing waiting lists for this unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37470/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 506 and 507 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.
As the Deputy's questions relate to service issues, I have arranged for them to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.
