Disability Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017

Tuesday, 20 June 2017

Ceisteanna (1447)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

1447. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the reason for the use of a block resource allocation model for the provision of children's disability services; the way in which this model adjusts to increased demands year on year for services; his views on whether this model is leading to unacceptable delays in the ability of children to access disability services, such as a centre (details supplied) in Dublin; if he will request the HSE to deploy a demand led model of resource allocation for children's disability services which reflects the level of demand and unmet needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28491/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

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.