Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The programme for Government features a commitment to improve "the lives of people with disabilities through better access, supports and independence". While this is a very admirable aim on which everyone will be in agreement, the reality is much different from the aspiration set out in the programme for Government. Many people with very serious special needs who are in need of residential or respite care have no chance of accessing such care. As a result of difficulties that may arise, people with special needs are being taken out of their accommodation and, in some instances that I am aware of, placed in mental health facilities. These are totally inappropriate placements. The position is unacceptable for families who are having undue pressure and anxiety placed on them.

It is May and no appreciable progress has been made in the provision of residential and respite care and accommodation for people with special needs. In other instances, money is being spent where existing facilities are being wound down, for example, in County Kerry, yet there is nowhere for people to go. In other places, there are no services available. Will the Taoiseach indicate whether the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, who I had hoped would be present, could come to the House at some stage to facilitate a debate on this matter and try to establish some connection between reality and aspiration?

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