Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)
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364. To ask the Minister for Health when respite homes will be able to reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28421/21]

Anne Rabbitte (Galway East, 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.

In Budget 2021, I committed to provide funding to the HSE to develop nine additional respite services across the country. In February, I was delighted to announce St Gabriel’s Children’s Respite Service, in Limerick, as the first of these services.

€5m funding has been provided to the HSE to develop and open the additional 9 dedicated centre-based respite services across all Community Healthcare Areas this year. I am engaging with the HSE on this matter on an ongoing basis and have requested the HSE to give the utmost priority to putting these new facilities and services in place without delay. The aim is to provide me with regular reports so I can ensure this additional funding is directly targeted at the people who need it most.

As this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.

Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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365. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide clarification on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28422/21]

Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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This Parliamentary Question relates to an operational issue and is a matter for the HSE. While members of the Oireachtas have been advised to resubmit their questions when the HSE IT system is fully operational, the Department has sought a response directly from the CHO.

Visitations are important for the health and well-being of residents and we are keen to forward the update for residents of Cherryfield House and their families.

Therefore, please find attached response from the HSE for your information.

The referred reply under Standing Order 51 was forwarded to the Deputy.