Joe Flaherty (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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179. To ask the Minister for Health if the disparity in pay for staff at a facility (details supplied) will be addressed. [16409/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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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.

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 St Christopher’s Services in Longford 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.

I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.