In the chapter in the programme for Government dealing with improving the lives of people with disabilities, I am struck by the number of reviews proposed. They focus on enabling people with disabilities to live independent lives, providing greater independence in accessing the services they choose and placing them in a stronger position to tailor supports to meet their needs and plan their lives. The programme for Government states

[D]isability policy and supports cross most government departments and agencies resulting in complexity for service users. A review of State structures and delivery will take place to respond to the introduction of personalised budgeting tailored specifically to the needs of the individual.

Can the Taoiseach indicate if this review has been established and when we can expect an outcome? The programme for Government promises a review of the role of the National Disability Authority and a proposal to consolidate all means-testing under a single national body ensuring a single application for services or entitlements across all Government agencies.

The reality of life for people with disabilities is in stark contrast with the commitments in the programme for Government. Nowhere is the word "respite" mentioned in the entire chapter of the programme for Government. I have met parents of people with disabilities. They have very significant issues and challenges, and they are getting no respite. What is going on is a scandal. I want the Taoiseach to outline how real this document is or if those reviews have been established.

I thank the Deputy for observing the minute.

The task force on personalised budgets was established in September with the remit to make recommendations on a personalised budget model for people with a disability, which includes, obviously, people who have need of respite. The national task force on youth mental health was established in August and the award of the contract for the national forensic mental health service in Portrane was approved. As announced in the budget all the weekly benefits, including blind pension, carer's benefit and allowance, disability allowance and invalidity pension are to be increased. Obviously, there are other issues in respect of health, including 10,000 medical cards for children in receipt of domiciliary care allowance.

On the specific issue, budget 2017 provided for the extension of entitlement for the treatment benefit scheme and the invalidity pension scheme to self-employed people. Obviously there are other elements of what has been followed through to date. I can advise Deputy Martin later on the specific issue he raised.