Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

763. To ask the Minister for Health if he has developed and recently implemented a new policy concerning the respite care and care supports by the Health Service Executive for children in County Donegal with complex needs and life-limiting conditions; the details of this new policy; if there is a policy whereby the parents and guardians of the children for whom care is being provided are only permitted to leave their residence for a maximum of 30 minutes after which time they are required to return to the home and remain there for the period during which those providing respite services are present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10036/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This issue was only recently brought to my notice when I became Minister for Health. I have asked for a full report on the matter and will revert to the Deputy when I have more information and have had the opportunity to consider it.

Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

764. To ask the Minister for Health to provide home respite for children with complex needs given the announced recruitment in 2015 of 9.5 permanent nursing posts in County Donegal; if the holders of these posts have temporary or permanent contracts; the nature of the services and care these post holders have been recruited to provide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10037/16]

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

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, he can contact my Private Office and they will follow the matter up with the HSE.