Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Absolutely. Of course, we want to be that ambitious to ensure that every county would, at a very minimum, have a respite house for children, that is, a house in both Cavan and Monaghan. At this moment, however, the proposal that has been submitted by Edel Quinn is for a respite house for both countries that is operational full-time.

That will add capacity. My understanding is that it is a five-bed house with separate doors. That separate door would ensure that a person with sensory needs can be supported to meet his or her needs and at the same time, the mild and moderate cases will have their own separate front door. Therefore, the building is functioning full-time at all times and everybody is catered for, so we never end up in a situation where the house has a multiplier effect of not functioning for everybody. The 1,800 overnight bed capacity would be on the seven over seven basis, which is exactly what is required and will add substantial accommodation. That would mean people who are not applying or who are in need but do not know how to access it at this point will have their needs met.

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