Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
383. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has received a report (details supplied) if so, the timeline for the publication of the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27796/21]
View answer414. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will publish a report by a company (details supplied) on the cost of disability before the end of May 2021; if not, the timeframe for publication given its importance to budget planning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28013/21]
View answer415. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Social Protection when research into the cost of disability in the State carried out by a company (details supplied) will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28014/21]
View answer428. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Social Protection if a report (details supplied) has been completed and submitted to her Department; if the delay in receiving the report will cause a delay in the publication of the report; and the date the report will be made available. [28388/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 383, 414, 415 and 428 together.
My Department has commissioned Indecon International Consultants to carry out research into the cost of disability. I understand that a final report is expected to be submitted to the Department shortly. I look forward to receiving this very important report which will provide a valuable input to inform policy direction in relation to the adequate provision of supports to meet the needs of people with disabilities. Given that this is a matter for the whole of Government, and considerably wider than the income support system, I will be bringing the report to the attention of my Cabinet colleagues for consideration in advance of publication.
In line with the principles of consultation and engagement with the disability sector that have underpinned the conduct of this research project, it is my Department's intention to hold a briefing on the research with the relevant organisations at an appropriate time. The input of these organisations has been invaluable to the survey work undertaken by Indecon.
It is worth noting that at the outset of the process, the target response rate to the survey element was 1,000 respondents. However, a remarkable 4,700 responses were received from people living with a disability. This represents one of the most detailed surveys ever undertaken in Ireland of individuals with disabilities. Given that context, I am satisfied that the longer time it took to conclude the project will ultimately strengthen the research and increase the usefulness of the final report. I trust this clarifies the matter at this time.
