Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Arising out of today's meeting, there have been a good few points relating to targeting people with disabilities to make sure there is a housing policy across the country. There are issues regarding the adaptation grants. In some cases, the grant might need to be increased with regard to a specialised adaptation needed for the person with a disability. There should be a bit of flexibility in this regard to meet the needs of somebody with a specific need, who would be in a nursing home or healthcare facility if there was no flexibility or some way of addressing that issue.

Regarding two-bedroom accommodation mentioned by some members, the availability of housing for single people is causing significant concern across the country and needs to be looked at specifically for persons with disabilities. We will have an ongoing discussion with the Minister of State because issues will arise from time to time at which we need to look. What discussions is the Department having with local authorities regarding the county development plans and strengthening the connection between the Department and local authorities to make sure there is better provision for people with disabilities?

There needs to be a new discussion between the Department and section 39 organisations about how they are trying to get funding for their builds for respite and residential care. That is part of our remit and we will look at this issue. As members said, they are looking at value for money because they are charitable organisations and do not have endless resources. The Department needs to be very mindful of that and look under the various schemes, such as the capital assistance scheme, to ensure there is scope for section 39 organisations to get the best property to serve the people whose lives we hope to improve through the work of this committee. It is important that the Minister of State takes this on board from this meeting. Does he wish to make a few closing remarks?