Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

In regard to the actions, the partial capacity benefit provides a much needed flexibility which did not exist previously. An individual who suffers from an ongoing condition or is recovering from a serious illness can return to work on the partial capacity benefit and qualify for the social welfare disability payment if his or her condition deteriorates. It is important for people that they are not required to reapply for payments. I meet the disability groups on a regular basis and had a meeting with them recently. Perhaps the scheme could be used by more people but I think it is working well.

I have also rolled out the disability activation, DACT, pilot project, which Sinn Féin has praised. The scheme has been under way for a number of years, including the Walk PEER programme, which is available in several north-eastern counties.

The programme is currently being evaluated by Indecon International Economic Consultants with a view to seeing what learning there is, particularly regarding young adults with a disability, many of whom are focused on the Walk PEER programme, to which the Deputy referred. We are making good progress on employment supports and the policy. I anticipate being in a position to launch it shortly. The staff and voluntary groups involved in disability have been of enormous assistance in developing the programme.

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