James Bannon (Fine Gael)

When it is finalised, it will be the time for handing out the plaudits. There is an onus and responsibility on all of us, as elected public representatives, to continue to work to ensure the best possible outcome for people with special needs and disabilities.

Congratulations are due to the Disability Legislation Consultation Group and other disability and caring groups which have spent so long campaigning and lobbying for comprehensive legislation to ensure the rights of the disabled. It is essential the Bill is seen as one element in an overall national disability strategy, along with the Comhairle (Amendment) Bill 2004 and sectoral plans, which must comprise essential legislation, services, detailed implementation plans, specific targets and adequate financial resources.

We were told funding would be ring-fenced but were not told how much. We will soon know how serious the Government is about delivering this programme and the promised annual financial package with the publication of the Estimates and budget 2005. Intent can also be shown by visible capacity building to meet changes, through increases in college places for physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, etc., which were dealt with in great detail by my colleague, Senator Terry, and through the implementation of national standards in disability services to ensure real improvements in services to the disabled.

We know that early intervention is critical in many cases of disability. How does the Government intend to provide for this need, particularly in the area of speech therapy, alluded to by Senators Terry, O'Toole and others, where there is currently such a shortage of trained personnel? As a health board member for close to seven years, I know countless reports and studies have been undertaken around the country. The major problem is obtaining funding to implement the findings of such studies and reports. I hope we will see an increase in funding for this important initiative.

We have been let down so often in the past it is hard to trust the Government. I was delighted to hear Senator White warn the Taoiseach with regard to funding for the implementation of this programme. I hope she follows this through not alone with the Taoiseach but with the various Ministers she referred to in her presentation to the House.