Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Has Mr. Deering or his office been given any indication as to the timeframe for this process? That is a crucial. What came across very strongly from Mr. Deering's opening statement and his predecessor's report was that politicians cannot delay this any longer, that there needs to be speed and urgency. As we speak, those mentioned in the report, including Tadhg, a young person in his 20s who has Down's syndrome, severe and profound autism and is non-verbal, needs this support yet he is not getting it. He will not be approved for a primary medical certificate. His issues were exasperated during the pandemic. Going for a drive in the car helped him to relax and calm down but on one occasion he put his arms around the driver's neck forcing the car to come to a sudden halt. That family needs this support to be able to adapt their car to Tadhg's needs. The report also mentions Jack who states that just because he does not have limbs does not mean he is not disabled. This person is in excruciating pain 24-7. He uses a walking aid and a mobility scooter and has adapted the extension of his house to get around. He cannot get support because he needs to have limbs yet he has the same issue as many who have limbs.

Has the Minister of State given Mr. Deering any indication of the timeframe within which a report with recommendations will be available. I am conscious that the Minister of State does not sit at the Cabinet table.