Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I would like to bring to the Leader's attention once more people with intellectual and other disabilities, many of whom were outside the gates of Leinster House today to try to highlight their difficulties. It is time the Ministers for Health and Children and Education and Science came to the House to discuss these issues, particularly in the light of the cutbacks that many families have to endure. There have been cutbacks in respite care and provision for young adults over the age of 18 years. There have also been cutbacks in personal assistance for many people with disabilities which will leave many in outrageous circumstances. We should have a discussion on this matter, notwithstanding the fact that there will be statements on autism tomorrow night. This is a most grave issue.