Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
1011. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 576 of 16 May 2023, if he will provide an update on the working group on PA services established in Q2 2023; its progress and status; and whether they will be able to establish a centrally maintained waiting list for PA services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36101/23]
View answer1014. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth further to Parliamentary Question No. 64 of 30 May 2023, where he referenced the National Service Plan and delivery of additional 70,320 PA hours, how many more hours are needed to allow PWD to determine the supports that they need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36104/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1011 and 1014 together.
My Department acknowledges the role of PA Services in supporting the person with a disability to live independently in the community as set out in Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Following the transfer of specialist disability services to this Department, officials will be working with the HSE on the further development of policy on the provision of PA services with an agreed definition, criteria for accessing the service, assessment process and an indication of the level of support that can be provided.
In relation to the level of funding available for disability services, I will be seeking additional funding as part of the Estimates process to support individuals with disabilities to live a fuller, more independent life and participate in normal activities in the community, in line with UNCRPD Article 19.
As the working group referred to is chaired by the HSE, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
