Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I agree with many of the sentiments expressed by Deputy O’Dowd. My view on this is that the amount of money being spent, namely, €5,000 per person per year, contrasts with the huge sums of being spent in other areas. The answer to the Deputy’s question is that I will strongly take on board the views he has raised today. Other colleagues, such as Deputy Gerry Adams, raised this matter recently also.

On the broader issue of disabilities, I strongly agree that we need to invest in the services. Disability services were severely slashed over the past six or seven years. I am trying to address that at present. Last week, I announced in the region of €31 million for school leavers and various worthwhile projects.

We have to be seen to be supporting people with disabilities and acting in regard to supported employment. Supported employment is completely different from the circumstances of somebody with an illness who can re-enter the workforce on recovery. The reality is that within the intellectual disability sector, we need supported employment. Therefore, I agree with Deputy O’Dowd on the issue of bureaucracy.

Over the past couple of weeks, I have raised this matter with my Cabinet colleagues and I told them we need to react. It is not just a matter for the Minister of State responsible for disabilities to talk about the rights of people with disability. It is a matter for every single Minister.

On the question as to whether I will meet the families, I absolutely will do so. I will be honoured to meet them. I had a few rows behind the scenes with my officials.

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