Tom Clonan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

thank the Minister of State. I am disappointed to note that his response really does not answer the question or meet the needs of the people who have contacted me. It is essentially not the case that direct payments can only be made through a service agreement. It is common practice in community healthcare organisations all over the country, and west of the Shannon in particular, that companies such as Home Care Direct facilitate independent supports for disabled citizens. It is not correct to say this is the only mechanism by which direct payments can be made.

I appeal to the Minister of State to impress upon Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, and the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, that people are in absolute crisis and it is a very easy fix. I receive correspondence, such as the letter from Bláithín, every day. I note the Minister of State seems to have rowed back on her position somewhat, where she would ask colleagues in the HSE to facilitate families. This is what we are about. We purport to support the independent human rights of disabled citizens. We had a very expensive Government campaign which said that disability rights are human rights so can we see some action on this? I appreciate the Minister of State's response and I conclude by echoing the congratulations from our fellow Senators. Comhghairdeas and well done.