Sinn Féin TD for Cavan-Monaghan, Pauline Tully, has welcomed the news that a business case has been submitted to the HSE for increased respite in Steadfast House.

The Sinn Féin spokesperson on Disability and Carers recently highlighted to the Minister for Disabilities the ease with which respite services for disabled adults in Cavan-Monaghan could be expanded by adequately funding Steadfast House to operate on a full-time basis.

Teachta Tully said:

“I recently brought it to the attention of Minister Rabbitte that respite services for disabled adults in Cavan-Monaghan could be expanded in Steadfast House to alleviate the growing waiting list for respite provision in the constituency.

“Respite services for children and adults with a disability in Cavan-Monaghan are seriously under-supplied.

“Steadfast House in Carrickmacross already delivers respite for disabled adults.

“Currently, however, they do not operate on a full-time basis and can only offer 840 nights respite throughout the year.

“I welcome the news I received from the Minister to inform me that a business case has now been submitted to the HSE to increase respite in Steadfast House.

“The business plan is to increase the provision at the centre on a full-time basis, 52 weeks per year, 7 nights per week, and increase the amount of respite to 1500 nights per year.

“If the business plan is approved, this would ultimately allow for all residential respite for adults to take place in Steadfast House and allow Annalee Respite Centre in Cavan to be used solely for children until the new HSE Children’s respite centre for Co. Monaghan is opened.

“I will be engaging with the HSE to press for a positive decision on this business plan without delay.”