In previous contributions, the Taoiseach has spoken about the HSE plan for 2019 that is being drawn up. I have raised a number of issues regarding the availability of respite care, particularly for adults with intellectual disabilities. The shared care scheme was very good but it seems to have evaporated completely, particularly in the south of Ireland. People with parents of advancing years are looking for respite. Will the Taoiseach make increased respite care availability for people with intellectual disabilities a priority in the service plan?

We allocated an extra €10 million for respite last year, which has allowed us to establish a new respite house in each community healthcare organisation area. They may not all be up and running yet but I know a lot of them and where they are up and running they have made a difference in providing additional respite, something that is so valuable to carers, gives them an important break from their caring duties and allows them to continue. The service plan for 2019 is not yet formulated but the Minister of State, Deputy Finian McGrath, is committed to respite, home help and home care in particular. Approximately €150 million in additional funding is being provided for social care. We all need to work together to make sure the money goes to the people who need it, namely, the patients and the service users, and not anyone else.