Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will respond to that. Respite is a very important part of our disability plan and the disability programme for the past 12 months.

It is also part of our reform agenda. We have just completed our 12th new respite house. As a result of the €10 million we got last year, we have 12 new houses up and running throughout the country. We are planning for 33,000 day respite places and 166,000 overnight services after Christmas and in 2020. Respite is a very important part of the agenda. These services are now up and running and will be developed. With regard to St. Gabriel's, I would be delighted to take up the Senator's offer. We are looking at that particular case at the moment. I would be delighted to visit St. Gabriel's and to talk to the staff and families. That is a very important part of my job. A very important part of developing services and of the reform agenda is making sure that the interests of the families and the people who work in the service are protected.

Senator Conway-Walsh has left. With regard to the protocols for transition to get new teenagers going, a lot of preparation is done before 18 year olds move into adult services. Approximately 1,600 people, having hit 18, come into adult services every year. The good news is that we managed to secure an extra €13 million to develop these services and to keep them safe. Every 18 year old that comes out of youth services is now guaranteed a place at an adult day service. That is essential. There has to be preparation for that transition. Most sensible services provide that a few months before people move on to a new service. Many services provide key workers, link workers and meetings with families and parents. If members have any concerns about a particular service, they should not hesitate to contact me because we have to ensure that transitions are as stable as possible for people, and particularly for adults with autism, as these transitions can be very difficult for them and for their families. The 1,600 who come out every year generally do get a place and get on with it. If there are gaps, members should not hesitate in letting me know.