Vol. 510 No. 5
75 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the extent to which he will be able to meet the needs of the parents, friends and support groups of the physically or sensory handicapped, with particular reference to respite, residential care and back-up services for patients and carers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22926/99]
The requirements for the development of services for people with physical and sensory disabilities are set out in the report of the Review Group on Health and Personal Social Services for People with Physical and Sensory Disabilities, Towards an Independent Future, which was published in December 1996. I have already stated on a number of occasions that I am committed to the implementation of the recommendations of the report. Since taking office, this Government has invested over £38 million in the maintenance and development of these services and will continue to give substantial support to them.
