Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

I understand the challenges. I know there is significant demand for residential placements at a level which consistently exceeds supply.

We are living longer and we need to do more. I can assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to funding and to working on this. Challenges in providing these services include workforce challenges that apply to all specialist disability services, the acquisition of suitable housing stock and the increasing cost of providing residential care. Regulatory compliance is important in residential services and HIQA continues to inspect all designated centres for people with disabilities. This is critical to providing assurances that the quality of life of those living in residential services is appropriately addressed. In order to address these challenges, the Department of Children, Disability and Equality continues to engage with the HSE, Department of housing, and other relevant stakeholders to explore various ways of responding to demand while appropriately managing the significant levels of funding provided to residential services. Finally, the Minister would like to reiterate the importance of ensuring that we continue to support people with disabilities to live meaningful and fulfilling lives, with a person-centred approach across all services provided. I can see the Deputy's commitment and dedication and I want to thank everyone involved for the work they do. I thank the Deputy for bringing this to the House today.

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