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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 1 Jun 1978

Vol. 307 No. 3

Ceisteanna—Questions . Oral Answers . - Register of Handicapped .

26.

asked the Minister for Health the progress to date in the setting up of a register for disabled persons in Ireland.

27.

asked the Minister for Health the progress to date in the establishment of a register of mentally handicapped persons in Ireland.

: With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 27 together.

Following discussions with the interests concerned my Department asked the health boards on 10 April last to proceed with setting up uniform registers for their areas of handicapped persons. These will include primarily those who are suitable for assessment for vocational rehabilitation, but also other handicapped persons, such as those in receipt of Disabled Persons (Maintenance) Allowances. It is thought that the registers will be available in about a year.

These registers will relate to those over school-leaving age living in the community. They will include mentally-handicapped persons coming within this description. Beyond this, I do not think it necessary to set up a formal register of all mentally-handicapped persons in Ireland. I am satisfied that the information at present available to my Department and the health boards in relation to mentally-handicapped children and in relation to mentally-handicapped adults in institutions is adequate for the purpose of providing and planning services.

: Would the Minister be prepared to make representations either to the Taoiseach or to the Minister for Finance in relation to ensuring that there is adequate access to the precincts of this House and to the public gallery for persons who are disabled? The Minister may not be aware that such a commitment was given by the last Government.

: It is a matter to which we should give more attention. All parties and all Governments have been somewhat remiss in this respect. The problem is not within my responsibility, but I will convey the Deputy's remarks to the Minister concerned.

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