Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 April 2016
125. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health his views on correspondence regarding cutbacks in services for young adults with a disability; why State funds allocated for these services have been channelled to other services; whether he considers persons with disabilities not worthy of adequate health services to allow them to be treated as equal members of society (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8801/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government continues to be committed to facilitating the full inclusion of people with disabilities in the life of the community through access to individualised personal social supports and services. This year the Government will provide €1.56 billion for health-funded services and supports to enable each individual with a disability to achieve their full potential and maximise their independence. The quantum of service to be provided, together with key deliverables and priorities, are outlined in the Health Service Executive's (HSE's) National Service Plan for 2016. The HSE is committed to protecting front-line services for people with disabilities, with targeted improvement in priority areas, including:
- the reconfiguration of children's therapy services, for which an additional €4 million has been provided;
- the provision of services for 1,500 young people on leaving school and rehabilitative training, which has been allocated an additional €7.25 million;
- the development of alternative respite models, with €1 million targeted funding;
- the reconfiguration of residential services, supported by €20 million in capital funding; and
- quality improvements to increase compliance with National Standards for Residential Centres for Children and Adults with Disabilities.
As the Deputy's concern outlined in the details supplied with the question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, he can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.
