Instead of spreading resources too thinly, I believe budgets should make a real difference for those suffering the most inequality. Currently many of these are the people with a disability, mental or physical, or both. I note there is to be a special committee to form a joint committee on the future of mental health care that is going to agree on a single long-term vision for mental health care. It is opportune, therefore, that we examine health care.
There is an opportunity in the budget to address the inequality being experienced by people with a disability. Budget 2018 should really address the poverty and exclusion experienced by those in question so they can participate and contribute fully in society. That would complement the work of the new committee. It is ironic that, outside the Dáil today, there is to be a protest by people with disabilities. They are highlighting the series of broken promises, not just by this Government but also by others. They feel the HSE has too much power over their lives. They are still waiting for developments such as the personalised budget.
