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

The Deputy is ignoring the point that the redirection of the money that would have been spent on the bonus payments will allow the HSE to provide critical investment in the provision of day services to many people with disabilities who might otherwise have been disadvantaged due to a lack of access to services. The Government remains committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities that 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.

The commitments outlined in the programme for Government are guided by two principles, namely, equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. I assure the House that the decision to phase out the rehab training bonus payment was not taken lightly and was only done when assurances were given that any money saved would be used to ensure that all HSE-funded day services were provided on an equitable basis. We have 26,000 people attending day services every day who do not get this bonus at all. Does Deputy Brendan Ryan want me to pay them as well? Of course-----

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