Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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648. To ask the Minister for Health the age limits for the assessment of needs process under the directives issued by the HSE disability office. [26847/16]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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649. To ask the Minister for Health the services or supports which exist for children who are ineligible for the assessment of needs process due to age limits under the directives issued by the HSE disability office. [26848/16]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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650. To ask the Minister for Health the number of children across the State who have applied for an assessment and are ineligible for the assessment of needs process due to age limits under the directives issued by the HSE disability office. [26849/16]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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651. To ask the Minister for Health the number of children in the HSE south Lee area who have applied for an assessment and are ineligible for the assessment of needs process due to age limits under the directives issued by the HSE disability office. [26850/16]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
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652. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to revise the directives issued by the HSE disability office governing the assessment of needs process; his further plans to reconsider the age limits for children seeking assessment; his plans to expand eligibility or supports available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26851/16]

Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 648 to 652, inclusive, 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.