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.

There is a range of employment supports for people with disabilities to help with getting a job and staying in employment. The Department of Social Protection provides these supports through local employment services offices and Intreo centres. The Department of Health has responsibility for rehabilitative training which focusses on the development of an individual's life skills, social skills and basic work skills with the objective of enhancing the trainee's quality of life and general work capacity.

Responsibility for the delivery of these services rests with the HSE and as such I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.