70 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for Health whether the funding required by Incare has been made available to that body in view of the requirements already set out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1025/94]

80 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for Health if the Irish Centre for Independent Living has sufficient resources available, either from his Department or other sources, to facilitate the continuation of the important programmes currently under way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1026/94]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 70 and 80 together.

The Irish Centre for Independent Living set up a two year pilot programme called Incare in December 1992. This programme is funded principally by the EU Horizon Programme, a Social Fund initiative designed to provide for the training needs of disabled and other disadvantaged people. The Incare programme involves training personal assistants to facilitate individuals with disabilities to live independent lives outside institutions.

The Incare Programme ran into financial difficulties earlier this year with a projected shortfall of £120,000. Following intervention by my Department, arrangements were made to meet this shortfall by contributions from my Department as well as the Department of Social Welfare and Rehab Lotteries. This additional funding will enable the Incare programme to continue to its completion date of December 1994.