Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 118: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when he intends introducing the advocacy service for people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11897/05]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The introduction of a personal advocacy service aimed specifically at people with disabilities is provided for in the Comhairle (Amendment) Bill 2004, which was published last September in conjunction with the Disability Bill 2004, and outline sectoral plans and as part of the Government's national disability strategy.

The Comhairle (Amendment) Bill 2004 is intended to confer additional and enhanced functions on Comhairle which will enable that agency to introduce a personal advocacy service specifically for people with disabilities.

The new service will be administered by Comhairle and will provide for the assignment of a personal advocate to a person with a disability who is unable or who has difficulty in obtaining a social service without the assistance or support of the personal advocate. The main function of the personal advocate will be to assist, support and represent the person with a disability in applying for and obtaining a social service and also in pursuing any right of review or appeal in connection with that service.

It is envisaged that the new personal advocacy service will be introduced in early 2008 subject to the necessary legislation being enacted and the necessary funding being provided.