Jerry Cowley (Mayo, Independent)
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Question 145: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether it is demoralising for carers to have to fight for minimal respite opportunities for their loved ones in view of the fact that people suffering from chronic conditions are looked after at home by carers; the way in which greater certainty can be given to carers in order that they can obtain respite care; the assurances which can be given that respite care is available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17867/06]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Additional funding for day and respite care centres has been provided to the Health Service Executive. A total of €9 million over 2006 and 2007 has been provided to allow for an additional 1,325 places per week in these centres. The investment of €9 million will allow for additional programmes for specific needs such as activity therapy. It will also mean that many day care centres can open for five or seven days a week, rather than two or three days as is often the case at present.

Responsibility for Carers Allowance, Carers Benefit and the annual Respite Care Grant rests with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs.

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive (HSE), which was established on 1st January 2005. Under the Act, the Executive has the responsibility to manager and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services including respite care. Accordingly, the Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.