Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 266: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her policy on independent living for people who have a disability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40299/06]

Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)
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Quality and Fairness — A Health System for You outlines the Department of Health and Children's commitment to the provision of "the right care in the right place at the right time". In line with this commitment, my Department will ensure that appropriate resources are provided for health, social and personal services to people with disabilities based on an individual assessed need as legislated for in the Disability Act 2005.

These needs may include independent living needs such as Home Support and Personal Assistance services. In the context of the Multi Annual Investment Package an additional 1.5 million hours of Home Support and Personal Assistance services will be provided in the period 2005-09.

The Sectoral Plan produced by my Department under the Disability Act provides for the exchange of information between Health Service Executive and public bodies (including housing authorities) for the purpose of assisting a person with disabilities in applying personal services. Furthermore, the Department of Health and Children and HSE will participate in the development of a National Housing Strategy for people with disabilities. This will assist in the development of appropriate housing to address the independent living needs of people with disabilities.