Brian Walsh (Galway West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 584: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if he will classify Down Syndrome as a disability in respect of all children with the condition in order to facilitate access to early intervention services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9275/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Children with Down's Syndrome are generally classified as having an intellectual disability. The majority of children and adults within the mild level of intellectual disability who have support needs can be effectively supported within generic or mainstream child and adult health services. A proportion representing those with assessed need for specialist services are referred to intellectual disability services.

Specialist Intellectual disability services are primarily targeted towards people with moderate, severe and profound levels of intellectual disability. However, some people with mild intellectual disability have specialist needs that will require specialist service supports. Decisions regarding the provision of services are not based simply on a person's level of intellectual disability; best practice in the HSE is to assess each individual case and make the best decisions in relation to that case.