Vol. 506 No. 2
285 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial assistance, if any, granted by his Department or the South Eastern Health Board to the O'Neill Centre, Kilkenny; if his Department is considering any proposals in relation to the centre; if the centre has lodged any applications for funding with his Department or the health board; and if he will make a statement on the overall development of the centre. [15427/99]
The provision of funding for services for people with physical and sensory disabilities is a matter for the relevant health board in whose functional area the service is provided. Each board decides, in consultation with its regional co-ordinating committee for physical and sensory disability services, on priorities for the development of services in its area. This year, £300,000 capital and £300,000, rising to £600,000 in the year 2000, development funding was allocated to the South Eastern Health Board for services for people with physical and sensory disabilities.
Capital funding of approximately £100,000 has recently been agreed by the Southern Health Board, in consultation with its local co-ordinating committee, for the extension of the O'Neill Centre. Revenue funding requirements submitted by the O'Neill Centre are being considered by the board.
