Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will address the points the Cathaoirleach raised. We are conscious, in the context of the review and the increase in income over the period, that the last review was in 2014. We are conscious of the increase in costs and the basis on which these are being assessed. We want to ensure that we meet the needs of people who are disabled. We put a very strong case to the Department of public expenditure and reform and have done a significant body of work on this. We know exactly where the Cathaoirleach is coming from. In summary, I very much take the Cathaoirleach's point on income and costs, and looking to get the grant to the people who require it. If situations arise concerning particular, very individual cases, especially around the disabled person's grant to local authorities, people should get those local authorities to make a business case to the Department. Not every local authority looked for additional funding for the housing adaptation grants but for those that did, we provided it. That is very important.

I very much take on board and welcome the input of the committee. We take the core point on independent living made by the Cathaoirleach, Senator Clonan, Deputy Tully and other members.