Services for People with Disabilities

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2016

Tuesday, 18 October 2016

Ceisteanna (380, 405)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

380. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which any improvements will be facilitated in the availability of post-school residential places for children and young adults with special needs in the coming years, with particular reference to ensuring the availability of sufficient such places to enable parents enter into employment in order to better care for their children in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30322/16]

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

405. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent to which any improvements will be facilitated in the availability of post-school residential places for children and young adults with special needs in the coming years, with particular reference to ensuring the availability of sufficient such places to enable parents enter into employment in order to better care for their children in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30321/16]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

I propose to take Questions Nos. 380 and 405 together.

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.