Written answers

Tuesday, 17 January 2017

Department of Health

Services for People with Disabilities

Photo of Josepha MadiganJosepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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1336. To ask the Minister for Health the plans under way to assist those with hearing difficulties; the regulations that currently govern catering for those with hearing difficulties by broadcasters; and if there are plans to develop legislation further in this area. [1838/17]

Photo of Simon HarrisSimon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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My Department has no role in relation to the regulation of broadcasters. This specific part of the question is more appropriate to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment.

However, I can provide some information in relation to health services and supports for people with disabilities, including those with hearing impairments.

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities, including those with hearing impairments, 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.

Budget 2017 includes an increased allocation to the Disability Services Programme to address a number of key priorities in the Programme for Partnership Government. The allocation for disability services will rise to over €1.654bn in 2017, an increase of €92 million on the Budget 2016 allocation.

Under Section 67 of the Health Act 1970, the HSE is required to provide free audiology treatment and appliances to children in respect of defects noticed at child and school health examinations and also to adult medical card holders and their dependants. The Health (Amendment) Act 1996 provides for free audiology services to certain persons who have a Health Amendment Act Card. Legislation is reviewed and updated as appropriate.

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