Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In responding to the Senator, I wish to provide assurance on behalf of the Minister of State with responsibility for disabilities that the Government remains focused on providing the best services we can for children and adults with disabilities, including respite or residential care, therapeutic interventions, day services fit for the 21st century, and independent living supports. The priority is always to ensure the health and well-being of people with disabilities.

The HSE has assured the Minister that the provision of outreach and alternative respite has continued while Sruthán House is closed to respite. The Minister has also received assurance that the HSE midlands-Louth disability service is engaging with a service provider to develop an alternative suitable accommodation to deliver this service. While recognising that people have had to wait a considerable time and this has caused stress and concern, the Minister is pleased the HSE is now in a position to provide positive news in respect of the necessary measures to ensure an appropriate service is delivered to the local community. It is anticipated the service will be delivered by the end of quarter 1 of 2022. The Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, has committed to returning to County Louth at that stage and joining the Senator to open the service officially.

I note the Senator referred to north Louth and the need for a second respite centre. I probably do not even have to bring that request back to the Minister of State because I am sure the Senator has already addressed that issue with her, but I will do so. I assure the House that the Minister of State with responsibility for disabilities remains ambitious in her vision for the provision of disability services for people of all ages in the coming years.