Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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322. To ask the Minister for Health the number of primary health certificates that have been issued to persons suffering from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and POTS syndrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40392/17]

Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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323. To ask the Minister for Health the number of primary health certificates that have been refused to persons suffering from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and POTS syndrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40393/17]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 and 323 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.

The Deputy will be aware that I have no role to play in the issuing of Primary Medical Certificates. This is a service matter for the Health Service Executive and accordingly I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.