Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am taking this question on behalf of the Minster of State, Deputy Finian McGrath. An additional €10 million was allocated to the budget for respite care, specifically home care packages. Disability network managers are also being introduced around the country, as Deputy Nolan is aware. It is hoped that once that recruitment is complete, the services available to people will improve.

On home care packages in general, there is a challenge facing the entire sector and people with all types of care needs, not just people with disabilities. We are spending €450 million in this area this year. That budget has increased from €300 million since the Government took office. That is a significant increase but demand also continues to increase at an alarming rate and it is very hard to keep up.

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