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

That is a scandal and something I will not accept as Minister. My focus is on the people with the disability and their families. The cancellations to which the Deputy referred are also not acceptable in this day and age. It is not good enough. Respite beds are also important and I will follow up on the broader issues raised by the Deputy. I am aware of the work that goes on in the St. John of God services and in Drumcar and we need to ensure they get the maximum support. The three cases to which the Deputy referred have to be dealt with individually and I will follow up on them as well. If there are other serious issues with respite care and with residential issues related to those services, I will follow up on those too.

I have a vision for services for people with disabilities and a major part of that vision is to protect the rights of people with a physical or intellectual disability. I will prioritise certain cases such as the Deputy has mentioned. My loyalty is to the people with disabilities and their families and that is where my focus will be in the next couple of months.

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