486. Deputy Áine Collins asked the Minister for Health if he will ensure that extra funding is made available for the home help package; and the home care package, in the upcoming budget. [34040/15]

Work is currently underway in the Department of Health in relation to the preparation of budget estimates for 2016. As part of this process, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has submitted an estimate of its proposed expenditure for 2016, including health and personal social services for people with a disability.

As discussions on budgetary issues are ongoing between the Department of Health, the HSE and the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, I am not in a position to comment on the outcome of the process at this stage.