Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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896. To ask the Minister for Health if a means exists whereby a person (details supplied) can obtain a therapy guide dog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37177/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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The Department of Health does not commission the provision or training of assistance/service dogs for children or adults with disabilities. The Health Service Executive's (HSE's) focus is on the protection of core activities such as residential, respite, day and core-therapy provision. Provision of assistance/service dogs to people with a disability is not considered a core health service and is not prioritised for funding by the HSE.

However, I would suggest that the Deputy might consider contacting the organisation Irish Dogs for the Disabled at www.dogsfordisabled.ie, which may be able to provide him with additional information on the matter.