Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

I accept that the Disability Legislation Consultation Group asked the Minister of State to propose the amendment before the House in the interests of improved wording. I support the many groups which are seeking to ensure that adequate funding will be allocated for disability services. They do not want the disability sector to be at the bottom of the Government's list of priorities when funds are being provided. The economy might not always be as good as it is at present. Services will have to be cut and belts will have to be tightened in the event of an economic downturn. We need to ensure the provision of services for people with disabilities will not be seen as a low priority in such circumstances. Such services will have to be seen as favourably as the other services which are provided by the State. I welcome the Minister of State's decision to take on board the request made by the groups involved in the disability sector.