John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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645. To ask the Minister for Health if the funding required to restore the level of services that were in place prior to the cuts being applied over the past ten years at a service (details supplied) for the care of persons with an intellectual disability will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9065/20]

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.

As the Deputy will be aware, specialist disability services are provided by a range of organisations. In some cases the HSE itself delivers these services directly and in other circumstances, the HSE relies upon funded providers to deliver these services on its behalf.  Organisations such as SOS Kilkenny provide services for people with a disability on a contract for services basis with the HSE, underpinned by Section 39 of the Health Act 2004. Service Level Agreements are set out between the HSE and the individual organisations.

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