Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
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I thank everyone for their input. I find it quite frustrating that we keep coming back to the issue of section 39 workers. This is about the recruitment and retention. So much energy that could be directed into other areas is spent on this matter. It is frustrating. I hope the Minister and the Government will take not and address this matter at some point. The people and organisations coming in here constantly mention it.

Two thirds of the disability services provided on behalf the State are provided by the voluntary sector. That shows us how big it is and how big an issue it is. The amount that is being covered is massive. With the funding that is available, it just seems unfair. I do not believe it is being funded in a proper fashion.

People mentioned Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., when supports are mainly directed. What about after hours or weekends? It seems there is a lack of support then. There are also issues in respect of getaways, holidays and social and recreational issues that need to be addressed and funded. I wonder what the witnesses’ opinions are on those.

Regarding ageing adults with intellectual disabilities and autism, it was mentioned they need additional supports, for health reasons or otherwise. Perhaps the witnesses could outline some of that.

Of course, there are inflationary pressures associated with everything. That matter needs to be addressed.

A proper complaints procedure is needed for the rights of an individual. If local procedures are not working, then issues cannot go forward to the independent arbitrator. Can the witnesses give us an insight into their complaints procedure? Is it working? Are we getting the benefits of these complaints? Are they being addressed in many ways?

The HSE regions and restructuring plan were mentioned. I am not clear what all that entails. Is that CHO 9, for example, and all that being changed around? I do not know what benefits that has. Perhaps the witnesses could give us some insight into that.