In view of the enormous cost of capital and current expenditure on institutional care, particularly for mentally handicapped children, would the Minister undertake a special review of the £25 allowance in the context of next year's budget?

It is £35.

As the Minister is aware, this sum of money has not kept pace with inflation in the past five years. With that in mind, perhaps he would be in a position to encourage the parents of mentally handicapped children to devote more care to them in their own homes?

This is an important aspect of the matter. First, let me remind the Deputy that the level was at £25 for many year but we increased it to £35 in April this year. In addition, we made that £35 available to every child. We have also instituted the home counselling service. These are very important aspects of the domiciliary side. I agree with the Deputy that we must do everything possible within our resources to help those parents to keep their children at home. I will ensure that that aspect of the matter is prominent in the review.