Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As we know, many families are under pressure due to the Covid-19 pandemic, most particularly those with children, young adults or adults who are vulnerable. From engagement with parents and service providers in Galway, I am aware that social distancing requirements and other health requirements are affecting service provision for persons with disabilities. Many parents, if not all, are tired and they are frustrated and upset over delays in the resumption of full services. I am not in any way blaming service providers because they have to deal with the impact of Covid on bus transport and residential settings. Respite, as we all know, is particularly important for parents of vulnerable children or adults with a disability. I ask the Leader to ask the Minister of State with responsibility for disability services, Deputy Rabbitte, to come to the Chamber at the earliest opportunity to discuss the provision of funding to allow for the full resumption of respite services for parents who are very tired at the best of times but who are particularly tired now because they have been looking after their loved ones, sometimes in a full-time capacity, for the past number of weeks. I wish the Minister of State, a Galway colleague, the very best of luck in what is a very important and challenging role. I hope she will be able to attend at the earliest opportunity to discuss the issues of respite and disability services.