Disability Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2021

Thursday, 7 October 2021

Questions (407)

Dara Calleary

Question:

407. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health the reason funding provided to the HSE for residential provision in the disability sector is so limited that only 56 new emergency residential placements could be provided in 2020 given that his Department’s capacity review document outlines a need for 91 placements per annum to meet demographic demand on top of up to 1,200 places required to meet needs identified since 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48845/21]

Written answers

Minister for Health

Residential services make up the largest part of the Disability funding disbursed by the HSE. Approximately 90 service providers provide residential services to over 8,000 individuals throughout the country.

The HSE was allocated funding for an additional 56 new emergency residential placements and eight appropriate residential places for people currently living in respite care as an emergency response to their needs, while also freeing up the vacated respite accommodation for future use. At end of December 2020, a total of 86 new emergency places were developed across the 9 CHOs.

In Budget 2021, the Government allocated over €2.2 billion for specialist disability services, including €100m in additional funding to enhance services and supports, reflecting the Government’s commitment in this area.

An additional 102 new residential places, including 44 emergency places, are being provided for in 2021 based on priority need. The HSE advises that at end of August 2021, 58 new emergency residential places were developed.