Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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415. To ask the Minister for Health the number of respite beds available in counties Cavan and Monaghan; the waiting lists for such facilities; his plans to increase the number of respite beds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39384/16]

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

The particular issue raised by the Deputy is a service matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE). Accordingly, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.