Responsibility in relation to the matter referred to by the Deputy rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the South Western Area Health Board.
I have been informed by the Eastern Regional Health Authority that the person referred to by the Deputy had been placed in Ballydowd special care unit for a number of months up until 22 June 2004 when he was discharged from the facility. In recognition of the concern to provide increased support in the immediate discharge phase, the area health board has put in place a complete wrap around service. His care will be overseen by the board's social work service, with Extern West providing a structured care programme on a seven-day week basis. As part of his transition to independent living, he has been facilitated by the services in securing a suitable flat with support and therapeutic resources to maximise the opportunity of independent living in the community. These arrangements have been accepted by the young person, his family and his guardian ad litem and are under continuous review by all stakeholders.
The area health board has also informed my Department that this young person has been accepted for placement for further assessment with the United Kingdom facility which specialises in trauma to the brain and head injuries and this placement is dependent on his co-operation. His care plan will be reviewed on a continuous basis and-or as needs dictate.