Michael Smith (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

The principle of facilitating people with disabilities to speak in their own voice is of vital importance and the provision of advocacy services will be particularly significant. Sectoral plans for key public services will be published in draft form and I anticipate they will provide an important element in planning future services. Each Department concerned will facilitate consultation before each plan can be finalised for submission to the Oireachtas. I look forward to much constructive consultation and debate in this regard. This is a further illustration of the Government's commitment to adequate consultation and debate.

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