Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I do not often find myself agreeing with Deputy Adams but as the Minister of State spoke, I wrote down, "Not one word other than further discussion exploring options." That is of no benefit to the family of a 26 year old severely disabled daughter who have been looking for proper respite care for three years. Even when she gives a few months' notice, she is told there is none available. I will not go into the story of Sam. We have heard it often here. A 93 year old man looking after a 53 year old son with Down's syndrome needs respite for him to get a break. His daughter helps out but has her own teenage daughter with Down's syndrome to look after. Finally, an 80 year old lady who suffered a stroke in April is the main carer for her with Down's syndrome of 36 years of age. The Mum now has her own care needs and they do not know how they will cope. I could go on ad infinitumon this but time does not allow me.

We need action. I said that at the outset. I understand the constraints. Deputy Adams, Deputy O'Dowd and the other Deputies who cannot be here have made it clear €300,000 will solve this problem covering Meath, Louth and a large part of north Dublin. The Talbot Group is in a position to provide what Deputy Adams has referred to. Indeed, other discussions have taken place with other organisations.

We met the Minister of State in July. I respect the Minister of State's office equally but this cannot be allowed to continue indefinitely. In fact, when I came into the Dáil, I asked the then Ceann Comhairle that we would champion the issue of disabilities in this House. That is certainly not championing it in County Louth or right across the country.

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