Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter on the Adjournment and I am pleased to take this opportunity to clarify the matter relating to the provision of health related services to people with physical or sensory disabilities, including the provision of personal assistance services.

Under the multi-annual investment programme 2006-2009, which is part of the national disability strategy, additional funding amounting to €51.5 million is being provided by the Government in 2006 to meet costs associated with the provision of certain specific high profile disability services. In regard to services for persons with intellectual disability and those with autism, this includes 255 new residential places; 85 new respite places; 535 new day places; 250,000 extra hours of home support and personal assistance services; and the continuation of the implementation of the transfer of persons with intellectual disability-autism from psychiatric hospitals and other inappropriate placements.

In addition to these initiatives, additional funding of €22.5 million is being provided this year. This funding has been allocated to enhance the multi-disciplinary support services for children and adults with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities and those with autism. The funding will also address core under-funding and core staffing issues in services for people with disabilities provided by the voluntary sector. Capital funding amounting to €45 million has also been provided in 2006 to put in place the infrastructural supports associated with these developments.

The provision of personal assistant services by or through the Health Service Executive is based on a careful prioritisation process. This process takes place at local level and draws on the expertise of those active in the voluntary and statutory service. I understand that it also takes account of priorities based on assessment of need.

The development of personal assistant services over the last number of years has led to increased demand for the service and the prioritisation process allows for an equitable division of resources. In the case raised by the Deputy, I understand that the Health Service Executive has taken measures to address the service needs of Catherine. I understand that a local voluntary agency has been contracted to provide a personal assistant service to her for two days a week and this arrangement will continue in the future. I have no doubt that the Health Service Executive will continue to keep Catherine's circumstances under review having regard to the prioritisation process for personal assistant services.

I note that the Deputy refers to Catherine's wish to work outside the home. I understand that FÁS is active in providing people with disabilities with assistance in gaining and retaining employment and it may be in the best position to assist Catherine in achieving her desire to work.

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