Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Training of Handicapped Children.
- Training facilities for doubly handicapped rubella children 6 speeches
The Minister said facilities for handicapped children are under consideration, with the needs of rubella children receiving special attention, but could not predict when the review would conclude.
Charles B. McDonald, Brendan Corish, Raymond MacSharry
- Opening of Bawnmore Training Centre 6 speeches
The completed Limerick centre remains unopened because funds are unavailable. The Minister said he had provided a grant for building maintenance and security but could not fund the health board to open it.
Desmond J. O'Malley, Brendan Corish, Gerard Collins
asked the Minister for Health if his Department has any plans for the establishment of residential training facilities for rubella babies who are doubly handicapped.
Comment on this
The position as regards facilities for assessment, treatment and training of handicapped children generally is under active consideration at present. The particular needs of rubella children who have a dual handicap are having special attention in this connection.
Comment on this
It is being considered at present but I have not information as to when the examination will be completed.
Comment on this
I honestly could not anticipate the length of time. They are a special problem in that they have a dual handicap and there is also a question of placing them in institutions where they can be educated.
6.
Comment on this
asked the Minister for Health when it is now proposed to open the Training Centre for the Handicapped at Bawnmore, Limerick.
Comment on this
As I indicated to the House some weeks ago, because of the priority which has to be accorded in the allocation of funds in present circumstances to the maintenance of existing services, I regret that it has not been possible to make an allocation for the opening of this unit.
In the meantime, however, I have allocated a grant to the Brothers of Charity to cover the cost of the maintenance and security of the buildings after they have been handed over by the builder.
Comment on this
Is the Minister aware that this building has been finished and ready since last March and that it cost more than £2 million? I gather there are hundreds waiting for admission. In view of that, would the Minister make a special effort to get the centre opened?
Comment on this
I appreciate what the Deputy has said but as I explained in reply to earlier questions, the health board have not got the finances with which to open the unit. I could not nor would I promise that the unit would be financed through the Department of Health, in this year in any case.
Comment on this
Can the Minister say if there is any way open to him to help the health board to get the centre opened?