Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 March 2021
855. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Health the number of persons accessing respite services; the impact of Covid-19 on access to respite services for these people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11539/21]
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.
The delivery of Respite Services continued to operate during the pandemic, albeit at a reduced capacity; some centres remained open, while others were temporarily re-purposed as isolation facilities.
I am informed by the HSE that at present, centre-based respite facilities are generally providing services at 40 to 60 percent occupancy levels due to necessary precautions to maintain physical distancing and to adhere to infection prevention and control requirements.
The use of targeted 1:1 Home Support Hours are being offered in lieu of respite in certain circumstances, subject to appropriate risk assessment and in line with prevailing Infection, Prevention and Control guidelines.
I am very aware of the pressure on families who are often under tremendous strain to keep going. That is why I secured an additional €5m in Budget 2021 to specifically enhance respite provision for people with a disability and their families. Funding has been provided to the HSE to develop and open the additional 9 dedicated centre-based respite services across all Community Healthcare Areas this year.
I was delighted to announce last week, St Gabriel’s Children’s Respite House in Mungret, Limerick, as the first of these services. I look forward to each service coming on stream being developed throughout this year.
I really believe that respite plays an integral role in the wider provision of disability services and it is an area I’m keen to continue developing.
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
