Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 October 2004
202 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if it is in line with Government policy for a health board to disburse money directly to parents of a child with Down’s syndrome rather than engage a speech therapist on the understanding that the parents will procure speech and language therapy privately; and if this practice has been authorised by her Department and the Comptroller and Auditor General. [25624/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware responsibility for the provision of services to persons with an intellectual disability, including Down's syndrome, is a matter for the relevant health board. The allocation of funding for the provision of requisite services is determined by the health board on a case by case basis. It is a matter for the relevant health board to ensure that all sanctions have been obtained and that an adequate monitoring system is in place to guarantee appropriate disbursement of public funds.
