Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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I have previously stated - I am sure people in the deaf community are aware of this - that I believe deaf-blind is different. It can be very isolating. Communication in this area is a huge problem but we are working on it. Work is also being done on definitions. I am told that in the context of the database on disabilities, we need to focus our attention on gathering information on the number of people who are deaf-blind and on whether their condition is progressive. Many children are born deaf-blind but there are people for whom deaf-blindness is a progressive condition. We are working on the issue. It is not being ignored. The Deputy will appreciate that no decision can be made until a recommendation has been made by the Department. As I said, the matter is currently being closely examined. The database and how we configure the questions required to be asked in that regard will be central to the actions to be taken.