Disability Services Data

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020

Wednesday, 27 May 2020

Questions (634)

Seán Crowe

Question:

634. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health the number of children on the waiting list for early years disability services for HSE in south western areas of Dublin; if the waiting time is 29 months from the date the referral was received (details supplied); the reason for the long delays in the area which predate Covid-19; if some children will miss out on supports in view of the fact they will be too old for early years intervention; the number of children on the list; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this will impact the current lists; if waiting times vary dependent on resources; and the additional resources that will be provided to the area to reduce numbers and waiting times in order to comply with the Disability Act 2005, in view of the lengthening waiting lists [8244/20]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Finian McGrath)

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 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.