Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
443. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he is satisfied with services being provided in St. Michael’s House across its various locations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46456/23]
View answerIn June of this year, St Michael’s House informed 13 families that they would not be able to accept a referral to their adult disability day service. I met with the families of the school leavers affected on 11th July and heard their concerns for the future of their family members.
I then met with the Board of St Michael’s House on 5th September and noted the impact on the families involved and the requirement for improved communications from both the HSE and St. Michael’s House.
My Department is in regular communication with the HSE in this regard, and I understand that work is ongoing to establish safe, suitable accommodation in Day Services. The HSE Estates Management Team, in partnership with identified service providers, are progressing the establishment of new service locations to accommodate the day service placements.
With regards to recruitment and retention issues, identified providers are actively recruiting to develop the new service offerings in Dublin North while balancing the needs of new service placements with ensuring appropriate levels of staffing for existing services.
An outreach service and/or additional home support services are also being offered to individuals and families affected on an interim basis while service locations are in development. The HSE assigned a Case Manager to each school leaver and each case manager is in regular contact to keep families updated on progress.
