Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Labour Party Senators for tabling the motion. This has been a good debate, to which I propose to make a very short contribution. On the issue of people with disabilities returning to work, I recently dealt with a case involving a person who lives in an area of high unemployment - the Minister of State will be familiar with the area - and returned to employment for 20 hours per week. He wanted to work despite being highly restricted in his movement. However, the support provided to him when he did not have a job was subsequently withdrawn. This should not be a black and white issue because people with disabilities need their services.

Consultations have taken place with representatives of IBEC, the chambers of commerce and the trade unions. Consultations should also be held with Departments to ensure flexibility is shown to people with disabilities who find employment. They must retain the supports provided previously when they return to work. The individual whose case I raise required physiotherapy three times per week to enable him to work. When his medical card was withdrawn he could not afford physiotherapy and had to give up his job. He was back at square 1, although in fairness to the officials responsible for medical cards, they accepted the strong case I made on his behalf and accommodated him for six months. I hope this period will be extended. Government services must show flexibility on this issue.