Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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456. To ask the Minister for Health the steps he will take to reduce the waiting list for rehabilitation beds in the National Rehabilitation Hospital, given the significant waiting list for places there; his plans to provide these services on a regional basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15913/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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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 Government announced a major development of the National Rehabilitation Hospital with a commitment of around €40 million. The new development will deliver a 120 bed ward capacity, including support therapies, paediatric and acquired brain injury wards, a hydrotherapy unit and a sports hall.

The National Policy & Strategy for the Provision of Neuro-rehabilitation Services in Ireland Report made a number of recommendations for services for people with rehabilitation needs which covered clinical, therapeutic, social, vocational and community supports. The Programme for Partnership Government places a particular focus on publishing a plan for advancing Neuro-rehabilitation services in the community. Currently a steering group led by the Health Service Executive Social Care Division has drafted an implementation framework for the National Policy & Strategy for Neuro-rehabilitation services. The implementation framework will guide and oversee the reconfiguration and development of Neuro-rehabilitation structures and services at national and local level.

As the Deputy's question also relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for a more detailed 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.