Minister McGrath secures an additional €10 million for respite care service.

12 December 2017

Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability Issues, Finian McGrath TD, today (12th December 2017) announced the securing of an additional €10 million for respite care.

€8 million will provide for nine new dedicated houses for respite in each Community Health Area plus an additional three houses in the greater Dublin area to respond to the very high demand for respite from this part of the country.

The remaining €2 million will be used for respite based on Home Sharing and also for day options such as extended day services.

In response to many meetings with people with disabilities and their families and carers over the last number of months, Minister McGrath said that he recognises the absolute urgent need for increased respite care throughout the country, and he has repeatedly brought this message back to his colleagues at the Cabinet table.

The Minister acknowledged that there has been very little investment into residential services for people with disabilities over the last number of years and that a shift in demographic pressures has lead to considerable pent up demand for residential places.

Speaking at the announcement Minister McGrath said “I have made it clear to the HSE that this funding will be ring-fenced for respite care within the disability budget and will be targeted at those most in need.”

He also said “I want to ensure that effective implementation and monitoring arrangements are put in place to ensure that this funding makes a difference for people with disabilities and their families and I will be seeking regular reports on progress during the course of 2018.”

He went on to say “Respite care provides an important service for people with disabilities and their families and carers. My hope today is that the provision of this significant funding will provide support to the invaluable work that carers do throughout the country on a daily basis.”