Paul Bradford
Ceist:77 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Health and Children the assistance, if any, available from his Department to help disabled persons meet the cost of purchasing a word processor or other technology. [5331/98]
Written Answers. - Grant Aid.
The National Rehabilitation Board administers a workplace/equipment adaptation grant scheme. The scheme provides financial assistance to the employer towards the cost of adapting premises or equipment for use by employees with a disability. In certain instances a word processor would be considered as an adaptation. The maximum grant available is £5,000. The 1998 budget for this scheme is currently being finalised by my Department with the NRB.
The provision of aids and applicances, including word processors and other technology for personal use by persons with disabilities, is a matter for health boards. In November 1997, £4.325 million was made available from savings in the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs to voluntary agencies working with people with physical and sensory disabilities, for individuals, for the purchase of aids and applicances, including technology. This was in addition to the ongoing resources allocated by health boards for aids and appliances each year.