Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2019
933. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health the breakdown of the use of the €150 million provided in budget 2019 for persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19594/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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 set out in the Health Service Executive (HSE) National Service Plan (NSP) 2019, the 2018 NSP budget of €1.772.1 billion for disability services was increased by €80.4 million during 2018 to give a final 2018 closing recurring budget of €1.852.5 billion. The 2019 budget also provided for a once-off €15m from the Department of Health's own funds for disability emergency places in 2019.
A total of €1.904 billion has been allocated by the Health Service Executive (HSE) for disability services in 2019. This represents an increase of €51.9 million on the final 2018 closing recurring budget. Taking into account movements during 2018 and the increased allocation in 2019, the total increase on the 2018 NSP Budget was €147.4m. The breakdown of this funding is as follows:
|
Category |
Breakdown of Additional Funding €m |
|
Additional in-year funding |
80.4 |
|
2019 Existing Level of Service Funding |
15.0 |
|
2019 New Developments Funding |
14.5 |
|
Additional Pay Rate Funding |
22.5 |
|
Funding for 2019 Emergency Places (once-off) |
15.0 |
|
Total |
147.4 |
