James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 361: To ask the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will appoint an ombudsman for persons with disabilities to ensure that those in need of assistance will be able to avail of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43630/10]

John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The Government has no plans to appoint an ombudsman for persons with disabilities at this time. It is considered that existing mechanisms for investigation of complaints in relation to the provision of public service to people with disabilities are operating effectively. The ombudsmans have ample existing powers to review cases of dissatisfaction brought forward by individual clients of disability services. The National Disability Authority also has an important role in the provision of independent expert advice to the Government, in enhancing access to services including any complaints processes already in place. In addition, the Equality Tribunal is a forum where complaints under equality legislation in respect of both the public and private sectors may be lodged and the Equality Authority is available for advice and possible legal assistance in relation to such complaints.