Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 1398: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a query (details supplied). [2274/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The provision of accommodation by approved voluntary and co-operative housing bodies is an integral part of my Department's overall response to delivering on social housing need. Under the Voluntary Housing Capital Assistance Scheme, funding of up to 100% of the approved cost is available for the provision of permanent accommodation for persons with special housing needs, including those with an intellectual disability.

Both the local authorities and the voluntary housing sector are providing an expanded range of social housing options and a wide range of accommodation types to meet special housing needs, including those in need of sheltered housing with low-level, on-site supports. For vulnerable groups, interventions in this area generally require an inter-agency response particularly where there is a care dimension to the supports required.

My Department does not have comprehensive information on specific projects which cater for persons with an intellectual disability. This information could best be obtained from the relevant local authority or the Health Service Executive.

The Government's housing policy statement, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, reflects the commitment in Towards 2016 to develop a national housing strategy for people with a disability. The strategy, which will be developed by end 2009, will support the provision of tailored housing and housing supports for people with a disability. The specific housing needs of people with an intellectual disability will be further examined in this context.