Cavan-Monaghan respite services
Deputy Smith raised the need for stand-alone respite centres for children and adults with disabilities in Cavan-Monaghan. Minister Rabbitte said a proposal was in place, the area was a priority in the national respite plan, and funding had been allocated for related facilities.
I wish the Taoiseach well in the future and I appreciate the courtesy he always extended to me in debates in this House and at other forums.
We are all well aware of the need to improve services for children and adults with a disability. From the many engagements I have had with the Minister of State, Deputy Rabbitte, over the past three and a half years, I know she is very determined to expand and improve disability services and facilities. We have particular difficulties in Cavan-Monaghan. We need stand-alone respite centres for children and for adults in both counties. Respite services are totally inadequate and parents are at their wits' end. As a matter of urgency, we need a new day activation unit to replace the Clogher House day activation unit, which is situated in a totally outdated building and is not fit for purpose. Our most challenged young adults need proper supports. Therapy services for persons with different levels of dependency also need urgent improvement.
Comment on this
I thank Deputy Smith for raising this important issue here today. The local HSE has made a proposal for a stand-alone respite centre for Cavan-Monaghan. It will support 50 families and be open 52 weeks of the year. Along with the Minister, Deputy O'Gorman, I am currently finalising the national respite plan, within which Cavan-Monaghan is a priority. Funding has been allocated for Clogher House under the capital plan for a new stand-alone purpose-built day service facility. I thank the Deputy, the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, and Deputy Niamh Smyth for their representations on behalf of the people of Cavan-Monaghan on this issue.