Jimmy Devins (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

Under the one year review of the sectoral plan, which was set down in the Disability Act 2005, the HSE has committed to put in place access officers who will develop and deliver an appropriate training programme. This will ensure consistency across the health system in 2008. The key actions and timeframes relating to these access officers are the appointment of a national specialist in accessibility by the HSE by March of this year; the putting in place of a plan for the designation of access officers by September; and the commencement of the designation of said officers will take place by the end of the year.

I understand that the national assistant director with responsibility for disability currently chairs a group, the function of which is to provide support and advice and monitor compliance with the legislation. The post of national specialist in accessibility is currently being processed by the Public Appointments Service.

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