Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

My Department commissioned the Indecon cost of disability report, which is being looked at by a committee chaired by the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte. There are other areas that we must consider when it comes to the cost of disability, including housing, transport and health. The committee in question is also considering these matters. Significant work is taking place and I will work closely with my Minister of State in that respect.

Indecon prepared a comprehensive report. A basic standard income for all people with a disability is unlikely to properly address the costs incurred by those most severely limited by their disability. We all recognise that resources are finite but we want to ensure that they are targeted at the people who need them most. On the one hand, we have people who have severe and profound disabilities and, on the other hand, we have people who have much less disability. We need to target supports at people who are profoundly disabled and need the most support. The one-size-fits-all approach is not fit for purpose. That has been made very clear in the report. The committee will consider many of these issues and produce recommendations following consideration of the Indecon report.