Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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592. To ask the Minister for Health the reason parents of children awaiting an assessment of need in Cork are being advised to submit a formal complaint to the HSE in order to speed up the process; if he will clarify the purpose of such a policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23839/16]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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594. To ask the Minister for Health the total number of assessments of children with possible special needs which are currently outstanding beyond the time periods permitted by the Disability Act 2005 in Cork city and county. [23844/16]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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595. To ask the Minister for Health the number of applications received by the HSE in respect of children with possible special needs in the south Lee area of Cork in the 12 months beginning January 2015; and the number of same which were completed within the statutory time limits set down by the Disability Act 2005. [23845/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 592, 594 and 595 together.

The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy. If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, he can contact my Private Office ad they will follow the matter up with the HSE.