Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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194. To ask the Minister for Health the additional funding which will be given to a group (details supplied) in view of the growth in the number of clients served by the group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44045/19]

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.

Significant resources have been invested by the health sector in disability services over the past number of years. This year alone, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has allocated €1.9 billion to its Disability Services Programme, an increase of €346 million since 2016.  The overall Budget for disability services in 2020 will be in excess of €2 billion.  Discussions in terms of how these monies will be allocated across the Disability Services Programme next year are currently underway as part of the HSE’s National Service Planning process for 2020.

As the Deputy's question relates to a service issue, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.