Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I refer to the Health and Social Care Professionals (Amendment) Bill 2018. The Rehab Group does excellent work by providing a much-needed service or people with disabilities. The group has announced that it needs another €2 million to continue to operate. It has also given a notice of 12 months for the termination of all care contracts. There are 3,000 people in care with 1,500 staff providing 140 services in 117 locations all around the country, including in my home town of Dundalk. This includes respite and residential services for 186 children, many with serious support needs. It is vital that the care service provided by the Rehab Group continues. This requires urgent intervention on the part of the Minister for Health. The Rehab Group is doing its best. It is selling off property, closing loss-making services and downsizing staff. I refer also to the closure of the defined benefit pension schemes. This is a fantastic service for respite and residential care. Can the Minister for Health intervene and ensure that these services continue and do not close in the next 12 months?

See this speech in context