Respite Care Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 December 2017

Wednesday, 13 December 2017

Ceisteanna (169)

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

169. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health the steps he will take to ensure a person (details supplied) is provided with the respite hours approved in respect of two children in October 2016 and which have not been provided to date, notwithstanding the fact that both are autistic; if in that context, he will investigate the respite care hours available in County Westmeath given that the HSE is unable to provide the hours allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53394/17]

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.

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.

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