Dáil debates

Tuesday, 26 November 2019

Ceisteanna ó Cheannairí - Leaders' Questions

 

2:45 pm

Photo of Leo VaradkarLeo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Pringle for raising this important issue. From our constituency work, all of us will know how valuable respite services are, not just for those with disabilities but also those who care for them. Just having the opportunity to give the carer a break can be so valuable and can really help people to keep going.

Just this year alone, 164,000 respite overnights were provided by the health service and nearly 34,000 day respite sessions were provided. Therefore, there is a considerable resource being made available. There have been 165,000 respite overnights this year alone. We acknowledge, however, that there is demand for much more.

We are committed to providing services for people with disabilities that empower them to live independent lives and provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhancing their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the programme for Government, which is guided by two principles, namely, equality of opportunity and improving quality of life for people with disabilities. HSE disability services confirmed today that respite services will commence in Seaview House in Donegal from 13 January 2020. We acknowledge that there was a delay in opening this new facility. I am told that was due to a requirement to undertake fire compliance and maintenance work before the house could be opened. I am told that it will open on 13 January, initially on a five-day week basis, but that could be expanded at a later point subject to the availability of staff and finance.

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