Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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241. To ask the Minister for Health to outline the provisions available for persons under 65 years of age to access a home care package in the case of exceptional needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20219/16]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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242. To ask the Minister for Health to outline the supports that exist for persons with locked in syndrome or related conditions; the way in which the care of such persons at home is managed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20220/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 241 and 242 together.

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.

In the 2016 National Service Plan, the Health Service Executive's (HSE's) priority is to protect the level of services provided in 2015 and to provide 1.3 million hours of Personal Assistant services and 2.6 million hours of Home Support to over 2,000 adults with a disability.

As the Deputy's questions relate to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the 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.