Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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With regard to the HAA, there is an acknowledgement that it was awarded for a very specific case of life-threatening illness. I have already outlined that the enhanced medical card that is being awarded is for life. It is not means-tested and it is not subject to review. Deputy Pringle referred to the support staff having trauma-informed training. There is a very clear outline and commitment that such training would be provided to the service providers. We have engaged with Sage Advocacy and we provided supports to it so that it, in turn, supports survivors to navigate the system. Deputy Farrell raised the issue of housing supports. Whether it is housing or health supports, the advice given by the service is very practical. The service is already on the ground and it is up and running to specifically support the work of advocating and, where necessary, going with the survivor to access whatever supports are required.

On Deputy Farrell's point about social housing, she is correct. Nobody knows better than the Deputy and the other representatives present the specific priority that is given to those who are particularly vulnerable, whether from a disability point of view or for health reasons, by the housing forum. That approach exists also for survivors. I again refer to the work of Sage in supporting survivors to access the services and to make their case. Sage is actively on the ground and working with those who need access to housing through access to increased HAP provision or in making a housing application. Sage can make the case that certain individuals might have a particular urgency due to vulnerability because of disability or health requirements.