Finian McGrath
Ceist:903 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if residential places for the learning disability sector in St. Michael's House fell from 71 in 2001 to 11 in 2002. [15419/02]
Written Answers. - Learning Disabilities.
Additional funding amounting to €19.82 million was allocated to the Eastern Regional Health Authority in 2001 for the enhancement of a range of services for persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism. A further €10.792 million was allocated to the authority for the services in 2002. In relation to the allocation of funding for new residential services, it is a matter for the authority to determine the manner in which the funding available to it is used to meet the needs of the persons requiring services.
I understand from the authority that funding in respect of 71 additional residential places was allocated to the agency in question in 2001, while funding for a further 11 additional residential places was provided in 2002.