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

Okay, right.

I also am advised by the HSE that this child does not require hospital care. However, I have been assured that the community disability services in the CHO 8 area are actively addressing this issue and exploring all possible options in securing appropriate services for this child as a matter of urgency. The Government’s ongoing priority is the safeguarding of vulnerable people in the care of the health service. We are committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities, which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. Significant resources have been invested by the health sector in disability services over the past number of years. This year alone, the HSE has allocated €1.9 billion to its disability services programme. This is an increase of about €314 million in the lifetime of this Government since 2016.

As part of its ongoing service provision, the HSE will provide more than 8,500 residential places this year to families in need. In fact, residential services make up two thirds of the disability budget. Our policy is for people with disabilities to be supported to achieve their full potential in order that, where possible, they can live ordinary lives, in ordinary places, doing ordinary things. Residential placements are provided on the basis of need and within available resources. The HSE engages with families to ensure that those with the greatest need are prioritised. Where residential placements are not immediately available, the HSE provides supports for families including day and respite services, home support and personal assistant services, early intervention services and multidisciplinary supports for children and adults. The need for increased respite and residential facilities is acknowledged and I accept that point. However, the HSE continues to work with agencies to explore various ways of responding to this need as it arises and in line with the budget available.

See this speech in context