3640. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Health the reason low vision aids are not covered under the local GMS budget in a number of counties in the south east (details supplied); if the necessary funding will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57138/26]

The Health Service Executive (HSE) Disability Services in the Midlands have a Service Level Agreement with Vision Ireland and allocate funding each year to provide services.

The HSE advises that Vision Ireland provides a range of supports to people who are blind or vision impaired. The services provided encompass the core pillars of vision rehabilitation, including orientation and mobility training, low vision advice and information, assistive technology support, emotional support and counselling, and daily and independent living skills and advice. The decision on the breakdown of the allocation between these services is at the discretion of Vision Ireland.

The HSE have annual performance meetings with Vision Ireland where they update the HSE on services provided for the funding received. If Vision Ireland require additional funding, they must submit a business case outlining the required funding and services to be provided for that funding. This business case will then be considered by the HSE within the resources available.

As this is also a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.