Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I thank the Minister of State for attending. I accept that the intention is to legislate to progressively ratify the convention. From a cross-departmental perspective, how many officials are involved in the interdepartmental committee? It is important that, as part of the disability aspect, there is a range of intergovernmental and interdepartmental officials involved. What interaction has taken place across Departments on issues such as housing, local government, transport and so on? This legislation, when enacted, will do little unless there is a cross-departmental action plan in place. Is such a plan being developed?

The Minister of State referred to the additional funding provided for medical cards for children in receipt of the domiciliary care allowance. Legislation to give effect to that funding position is expected to be brought forward early next year. What is the timeline in that regard? Is it expected that the legislation will be brought forward as planned? We appear to be at a legislative road-block on a number of issues. I accept that the legislative process can be slow but people in this sector have too often been left waiting too long. It is important that the Minister of State works hard to ensure that some of the targets in this area are achieved despite legislative road-blocks and so on. There must be a timeline in terms of progress such that people can anticipate better prospects for them into the future. The cross-departmental aspect is very important. Without a cross-departmental action plan, it will be difficult to give meaningful effect to this legislation. I would welcome a response from the Minister of State in that regard.