Maria Corrigan (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader as a matter of urgency to have the relevant Minister to the House to debate the issue of how ambitious we are for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities. An outstanding Law Reform Commission report highlights the fact that basic human rights for those with intellectual disabilities have not been addressed as a result of deficits in our exiting legislation. If we cannot ensure that someone has their basic human rights recognised and addressed, then they are by no means equal citizens.

Last week on the Adjournment I was pleased to have clarified and confirmed that people with an intellectual disability in residential settings will have moneys deducted from them refunded. I am concerned the HSE did not have this information but gave contrary information in its briefing to Oireachtas Members. I am also concerned about current deductions. Guidelines are in place which I want examined and to know how they are monitored. Most importantly, have those individuals with an intellectual disability given their consent for these moneys to be deducted from their allowances every week?