asked the Minister for Health if he has noted the results of the survey carried out by the Medico-Social Research Board into mental handicap in Ireland; and the measures he proposes to take to deal with the problems highlighted by the survey.

The recently published survey of mentally handicapped persons in institutions was carried out at the request of my Department. The findings of that survey and information from an associated survey of mentally handicapped persons in the community are now being studied in my Department and will form the basis for future planning.

The main problems highlighted in the published report were the lack of continued assessment for such handicapped persons and the inadequacy of training and employment facilities. The assessment service is undergoing a critical review by my Department at the moment. The need for improved training and employment facilities is accepted and developments will take place in them as resources permit.