Brian Walsh (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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Question 239: To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the consideration of the report of the Expert Reference Group on Disability Policy; when proposals arising from the report pertaining to the future of disability services will be brought to Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17410/12]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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The Value for Money and Policy Review (VFM&PR) of the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Disability Services in Ireland is being undertaken in the context of the Government's Value for Money & Policy Review Initiative 2009-2011. The Review is well advanced and it is anticipated that it will be published in the first half of 2012 if accepted by Government.

The review is made up of two strands:

1. A examination of the effectiveness and efficiency of the current disability services programme; and

2. A review of current policy in relation to HSE-funded disability services The Expert Reference Group on Disability Policy was established to look specifically at existing disability policy and whether it needs to be changed to better meet the expectations and objectives of people with disabilities. The Group's final report has been the subject of internal consultation within the Department of Health and with other Government Departments. During November 2011 it was released for public consultation and submissions received on foot of this are now being considered.

The Steering Group is currently drafting its final report, taking into consideration the recommendations made by the Policy Review Group and the results of the public consultation. On completion, it is my intention to look at both reports together and in conjunction with Minister Reilly to ensure that proposals for the future of our disability services are brought to Government for its consideration and publication in due course.