Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There is a commitment in the programme for Government to provide enhanced and improved services for those with disabilities. All Members know that respite services are at crisis point across the country and in my county, where families and elderly parents are suffering. In my constituency, the effect on the budget in respect of Drumcar skews the moneys that have been provided for these types of services. Members have tabled parliamentary questions and proposed Topical Issue debates on the issue yet nothing is happening. The Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, is stonewalling the people of Louth on the issue and a similar situation pertains countrywide. When will the Government face up to the fact that there is a crisis in respite care for those with a disability?

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