Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The proposals outlined in the Green Paper on Disability Reform would not have impacted the payment of students in higher education receiving a disability payment.

Based on feedback from the Green Paper consultation, it became clear that there were significant concerns with these proposals.

I have listened to these concerns and decided not to implement the Green Paper proposals.

The consultation feedback, in particular, highlighted that long-term disability supports should not be looked at in isolation but require a whole-of-Government response. All areas that affect people with disabilities should be considered, including health, housing, transport, and education.

The Taoiseach has placed a major emphasis on improving supports and services for people with disabilities in all aspect of their lives. He has announced his intention to establish a special Cabinet Committee on Disability.

I welcome the establishment of this Committee. As a Government, we now need to have a fresh look at how best to support people with disabilities, and I believe this will be best done on a whole-of-Government basis through this Committee.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.