Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:757. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if a capital respite programme will be put in place (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35291/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 26 July 2017
Ceisteanna (757, 758)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:758. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if there will be increases in funding for respite options (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35292/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 757 and 758 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.
The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability. The Health Service Executive's (HSE’s) Social Care Operational Plan for 2017 aims to provide 182,000 overnight stays in centre-based respite services, in addition to 41,000 day respite sessions. There are 210 new home support/in home respite supports for emergency cases and 185 new emergency residential placements in the 2017 HSE National Service Plan.
The level of any additional respite funding that may be available for my Department will be considered as part of the national Estimates and budgetary process for 2018 which is currently underway. Pending completion of this process, it is not appropriate for me to comment further at this stage.